Detroit News, The (MI) July 30, 2003 Livonia pet adoption fair gets 'paws-up' Abandoned, abused cats, dogs go to loving homes Author: The Detroit News Santiago Esparza Families, young singles and small children spent last weekend selecting the perfect cat or dog to take home as a pet. Pet Supplies "Plus" and the Michigan Animal Adoption Network on July 26-27 organized Livonia's largest animal adoption fair in the parking lot of the pet supply store on Middle Belt and Seven Mile. The fair featured more than 100 cats and dogs that were rescued from abusive owners, abandoned or were no longer wanted. Those adopting animals paid a fee that covered medical expenses such as shots and neutering or spaying. "This is the way to start a family," Kris Stachina, a 42-year-old Redford Township resident said while adopting a mixed-breed dog that had been abused. "We were the first ones here. We wanted to make sure." Dogs barking, cats meowing and small children squealing with delight as the animals licked and nuzzled them combined to create quite a din in the lot. But organizers said the hard work and noise that goes into getting the animals new homes is worth their efforts. "It's awesome," said Marie Skladd, president of the adoption network. "It's an awesome feeling." Organizers said this fair and animal health fairs co-sponsored by the pet supply shop are a growing trend. Because many groups that help rescue abused animals pledge not to euthanize them unless absolutely necessary, the groups must be aggressive. That means they have to reach many people in as wide an area as possible to have a greater chance of success. "We bring the animals to the people," said Joe Fucini, Pet Supplies "Plus" spokesman. "The shop has sponsored the network's efforts for 13 years. "There's never a shortage of animals." Jack Berry, CEO and founder of Pet Supplies "Plus", said his business is committed to helping the animals. Berry adopted a dog about three years ago. He advertised the network's fair on 47,000 papers distributed to area homes. "That's what our business is all about," Berry said. "We are a hometown business with hometown people." Meanwhile, Stachina and her husband are focusing on integrating the new dog into their home with two cats. "We have to get used to my cats, and we will be fine," she said.