Fill that empty space beside you with a pet

That empty space beside you on your morning run -- there could be a dog there pacing you out and keeping you honest (no walking!).

That empty space beside your bed at night -- there could be a dog there, exuding loyalty and keeping you safe.

All that empty space in your back yard -- there could be a dog there, snoozing in a shady spot but alert enough to awaken instantly for tail-wagging greetings if you open that sliding glass door.

And lest we forget, that empty space on the headrest of your favorite easy chair -- there could be cat there, ready to purr profusely at the slightest touch.

If you have any of these empty spaces or others -- in front of the fireplace, for example -- a fulfilling event awaits you Saturday at Sunset Park.

Media Partners for Pets will hold an "Adopt-a-Thon" from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be 150 dogs and cats to choose from, all spayed or neutered and microchipped for identification, all with their proper shots, all properly socialized. And all awaiting their sworn duty, to fill those empty spaces with the love of a special companion.

Media Partners will have a lot of help, from the Orleans hotel-casino, MGC Communications, Veterinary Centers of America, public radio station KNPR 89.5 FM and Dewey Animal Care Center, where the pets will return if not adopted.

Ann Herrington, one of the founders of Media Partners and the owner of three Dalmations, spoke to the need of such adoptions. Dewey was forced to euthanize 8,000 animals last year, she said.

"We just keep focused on how many we can save," she said.

Saturday's event comes complete with entertainment. At 1 p.m., there will be a pet costume and talent contest, hosted by The Movie Guys and featuring trainer Fred Hassen and his famous pit bull, Maddie.

Also, at the same time and place as the Adopt-a-Thon, Clark County will be hosting its second annual Clark County Family Safety Day. Firefighters will be on hand to talk about home and automobile safety.

"We just keep focused on how many we can save."Ann HerringtonMEDIA PARTNERS FOR PETS

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