278 Dogs Found Their Forever Homes and the Work Continues
Last weekend, the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds in Plant City became something truly special: A place where 278 dogs walked out in the arms of loving families. Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center hosted the Mega Dog Adoption Festival, presented by Team Godwin Foundation, and it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose.
For Team Godwin Foundation, our strong belief in second chances lives in events like this one, where every wagging tail and every tearful “yes, we’ll take this one” represents a life changed on both sides of the leash.
“Seeing the Greater Tampa Bay community show up for hundreds of animals who can't speak for themselves is exactly what we want to see more of through our work at Team Godwin Foundation. That is why we are so proud to support Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center and the incredible work they do every single day.”
— Mariah and Chris Godwin, Team Godwin Foundation
By the numbers
278 dogs adopted over three days
56 dogs from the Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center found homes
Multiple local rescue organizations participated
Every dog came spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and ready to go home same day
“While we celebrate the incredible milestone of 278 dogs finding loving homes at this year’s Mega Dog Adoption Festival, including 56 from the Pet Resource Center, we know our work is far from over. Many wonderful dogs are still waiting in shelters for their chance at a forever family. Events like this show what’s possible when our community comes together, and we remain committed to helping every adoptable pet find the home they deserve.” — Lisa Savopoulos, Executive Director, Hillsborough County Pet Resources Foundation
The energy of the weekend made one thing clear: Greater Tampa Bay shows up. But as Lisa and her team reminded us, the shelters are still full. Hundreds of dogs are waiting for exactly the kind of second chance these 278 lucky pups just received.
If you weren’t able to make it this time, or if you’re not quite ready to adopt, there are still meaningful ways to help. Consider sharing this post with a friend who might be the perfect match for a shelter dog. Consider fostering. Every action, no matter how small, makes room for more second chances and for more lives to be saved.
Make adoption your first choice.
Thank you to everyone who attended, adopted, volunteered, and shared. Thank you Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center for making this event possible. And to the 278 dogs who found their people this weekend, welcome home. 🐾