The towns of Aberdeen and Pinebluff, joined by the Moore County Citizens' Pet Responsibility Committee, will host a Pet Responsibility Celebration Saturday, April 19.

The event will be held at Southern Middle School on Johnson Street in Aberdeen from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Featured will be agility dogs, Frisbee-catching dogs and pointers. There will be a dog and cat show spotlighting dogs and cats looking for permanent homes, plus pet-related booths and information.

Everyone is invited to bring the family dog to take part in the parade, for a dog wash, a $5 rabies shot or to be microchipped. A veterinarian and a dog trainer will be on hand to answer questions.

Visitors can observe members of local civic groups as they build houses for the larger needy dogs of the area in a program dubbed "Houses for Hounds."

The day will be complete with face-painting, food and music.

The celebration marks the end of a six-month campaign in the Aberdeen/Pinebluff area concerning the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership. The campaign has focused on awareness of the pet overpopulation crisis in Moore County, education in the schools, low-cost spay/neuter days and placement of homeless pets.

Anyone needing more information can call 949-9953.