OKEECHOBEE -Freedom Ranch Okeechobee will host a pet adoption drive on Sunday afternoon, May 2 from 2-6 p.m. The goal is to raise awareness about the needs of various rescues. Two of the rescues will be in attendance Sunday, but they are not the only rescues who will benefit from the event.

“We want to raise awareness about the things the rescues need, whether it is supplies or ways the community can help them or the ways the community can adopt,” said Judy Throop, a local photographer who volunteers her time to help multiple rescues.

Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control and Aftermath Ranch Rescue from Indiantown will be featured during the event, and Aftermath will have some pets on site. They are hoping to hold more adoption events in the future, possibly twice a year.

Okeechobee Feed will be at the event giving away treats for pets and will also have beds, kennels, food etc. for sale for those who adopt and need supplies.

“We are also asking the community to come out with their pets. We ask that they be on a leash, up to date on vaccinations and that the owners clean up after them,” said Angela Boney, from Freedom Ranch.

Throop will be manning a “Smooch your Pooch” booth, where she will take pictures of pets and their owners. If you do not have a pet, a friendly pooch will be on hand to do the smooching.

There will be a costume contest for the pets, so dress your little darling up and bring him down. Boney’s daughter Lillie said her pooch will win for sure. She does not know what he will wear, but said it doesn’t matter, because he is cute no matter what he wears. He is a Golden Doodle. “There will be prizes,” said Boney.

“Some people want to support the rescues but are not able to adopt. We want to have activities for them,” said Boney.

Pet blessings will be available as well. There will be charms available for purchase to go on the collar of your pet. All proceeds will go to the rescues. John Glenn will be doing the blessings.

Ace Dog Training from Palm City wil speak about adopting pets from rescues and some of the behaviors you can expect after you adopt. She will give tips for success on transitioning your new pet.

Farm Girl Cookies, a local baker, will be onsite selling her cookies and plans to offer cookies for pets as well.

Blue Moon Barbecue will be there if you want to buy lunch, and Boney said there are plenty of picnic tables available if you choose to eat your lunch there.

A Kona Ice Truck will be there as well.

“Our intention is to make this a fun afternoon outing for families,” said Boney. “We want them to have fun and get some knowledge. Even if they don’t adopt, they can enjoy themselves.”

Freedom Ranch is located at 11655 U.S. 441 Southeast.