The Perfect Pet Expo Experience
Rescue Village (RV) attended the All-American Cleveland Pet Expo this April, hosted at the IX Center in Berea. The three-day Expo hosted 14 rescues in the MEGA Pet Adoption area, dock diving by Dawg Gone It!, Reptile Adventures, The Weiner Dog Olympics, and over 50 pet-related vendors. With over 10,000 attendees over 3 days, the Expo was the perfect opportunity for RV to spread the word about our mission and find homes for the homeless animals in our care.
Rescue Village’s onsite staff facilitated 15 same-day adoptions, helping a few longer-stay residents find their forever homes. RV’s commitment to barrier-free adoptions allowed the onsite Shelter Specialist to counsel potential adopters and complete adoptions at the RV booth. The 15 animals adopted at the Pet Expo included 3 kittens, 7 puppies, 2 rabbits, 1 adult cat, and 2 adult dogs.
One particularly special adoption at the Expo was a family from Youngstown, who found the perfect pup for a very special job. Melissa and her family came to the Pet Expo to find information about local rescues so they could start looking for a dog. They planned to find a puppy that could be trained as a therapy dog, so that they could accompany Melissa, a physical therapist, to work.
The staff and volunteers listened to their story and introduced them to Jack, a 9-month-old dog with a goofy grin and a gentle temperament. RV’s onsite shelter specialist discussed Jack’s history with the family and even took them on a walk together to help them learn more about his interactions with crowds and other dogs. After getting to know Jack, they ended their puppy search before it officially began!
Melissa shared about her experience adopting Jack, now Bowie, “Every volunteer there shared their enthusiasm and love for these animals, and the whole process was smooth and amazing.” Since going home, Bowie has made a new best friend and has started therapy dog training. He is on his way to being a beloved family member and a successful therapy dog!
The final adoption at the Expo was rabbit resident, Jerry. Jerry came to Rescue Village in March 2025 as an owner surrender with his brother, Tom. Throughout Jerry’s stay at RV, everyone could tell he was an exceptionally outgoing rabbit. Jerry joined RV at the Pet Expo on Saturday and Sunday, waiting patiently until the end of the Expo to find his forever family. He spent his time at the Expo hopping around in his enclosure and greeting attendees as they walked by the RV booth and quickly became a favorite of many Expo attendees.
Megan and her son came by the RV booth on Sunday afternoon and were instantly in love with Jerry. After chatting with our onsite Shelter Specialist, they took a walk before coming back just before the close of the Expo to take Jerry home. Jerry, now Noodle has his own bunny room at his new home. He enjoys walking with his harness and leash, loves eating veggies, and getting head rubs!
In addition to the forever homes found at the 2025 Pet Expo, RV’s booth also hosted information regarding our Events, Kids Summer Camp, and Volunteer Opportunities, allowing community members to learn more about Rescue Village’s life-saving work. Rescue Village is delighted to attend the October 2025 Pet Expo and find fantastic homes for more of our residents!
