NILES — Wanting to raise awareness about good pet health and getting pets homes, several groups came together to host a pet health and wellness fair at the Niles Wellness Center.

Toni Libbey, president of the Voices of the Trumbull Pound Dogs, said the event was designed to try and get dogs adopted.

“The Trumbull Dog Pound has been full for a very long time. We wanted to get the word out on the needs of the dogs and our organizations and others and what we need to do to help the dogs get ready for adoption,” Libbey said.

The dog pound has 11 to 14 dogs needing to be adopted.

Libbey said around the holidays, it can become difficult because people will get new dogs and then often get rid of other pets.

The event included various vendors and speakers who shared their services. Proceeds from the event will be used for spaying and neutering dogs and other medical needs.

“We want to help the dogs find homes,” Libbey said.

Jenny Falvey of Dog Smart spoke on preparing a pet to visit a veterinarian and ways to have a stress-free visit to the vet.

She said special arrangements can be made ahead of time with a veterinarian to have the dog wait in the car and not in the lobby. Falvey said rewards or treats can be brought for the dog so it will relax.

“Many dogs and cats are nervous when they go to the vet because it is unfamiliar to them. It can be difficult even waiting in the waiting room,” she said.

For cats, they should be kept in a carrier or cage on a table or chair and not the floor, Falvey said.

She said the event was a great way to bring the community together whether people are pet owners or not.

One group that participated was Love Vincent of Hartford, which provides free care packages to families whose dogs or cats have cancer.

Rachel Martin, president of Love Vincent, said they do receive a lot of requests for the care packages and also check with local veterinarians.

“It is a difficult time for many families when a pet is dying of cancer. The care packages provide support and comfort,” Martin said.

Care packages include treats, toys, blankets and collar accessories. Donations are accepted.

Orders can be made at lovevin cent.org

Also speaking was animal rights supporter Jason Cooke, who spoke about heartworms.

bcoupland@tribtoday.com