Some furry friends in Fourways will be hoping to charm their way into new homes when the community comes together for a day dedicated to giving rescue animals a second chance.

The event, taking place on October 31 and organised by Rachel Smith of Smith’s Collection, will bring Woodrock Animal Rescue’s animals and the local community together at Fourways Crossing Bark Park. Smith, who has two dogs of her own, said her love for animals was behind her decision to support Woodrock and create an opportunity for rescue animals to meet potential families. “I’m a huge animal lover and have two dogs of my own, so helping Woodrock is something very close to my heart.”

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Rather than simply raising awareness, Smith wanted the event to give the animals an opportunity to interact with people who could potentially become their new families. “I wanted to create a day that does more than simply raise awareness – it gives rescue animals a genuine opportunity to meet potential families while bringing the local community together in an enjoyable way,” she said.

Visitors can expect a relaxed, family- and pet-friendly community day where they can meet Woodrock’s rescue animals and chat to the organisation’s team about adoption. There will also be a selection of local market vendors, meaning people can support the cause even if they are not ready to welcome a new four-legged member into their home.

Smith said Fourways Crossing Bark Park was a natural choice for the event as it is accessible and already familiar to local pet owners. “It allows the animals to be seen in a welcoming environment and makes it easy for the wider Fourways community to participate.”

For Smith, bringing different parts of the community together is important because animal-rescue organisations cannot do the work alone. “Local businesses help attract people and create a vibrant event, while pet owners bring an existing love and understanding of animals.”

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She encouraged people interested in adoption to come along without feeling pressured to make a decision on the day. Visitors can meet the animals, learn about their personalities and speak to the Woodrock team before deciding whether adoption is right for them. “Rescue animals are not ‘broken’, they are simply waiting for the right person to give them safety, patience and a second chance.”

She added that adoption should always be carefully considered to ensure the match is right for both the animal and its potential family. Those who cannot adopt can still play a part by donating, volunteering, supporting the vendors, sharing Woodrock’s work or telling others about animals looking for homes.

Smith hopes people leave the event knowing that there are different ways to make a difference. “If the day results in greater awareness, meaningful support and even one wonderful adoption, it will have been worthwhile.”

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