“Rock 4 Paws really showcases our commitment to our roots of always being there for our local rescues,” Paw It 4Ward founder Azita Kay said. “Seeing the event growing, the passion from the rescues, the people who come out and really love what we do … it’s probably the most amazing thing I’ve ever done in my life.”
The fourth annual Rock 4 Paws is set for noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, at Indian Acres Farm, 111 Tuckerton Road in Medford. The free event features five local bands, eight local animal rescues and shelters, a beer garden, vendors and plenty of family fun.
“We just love the community vibe of the event,” Kay said. “Everything is local. Everything is in your reach after the event. That’s what we strive for.”
Rock 4 Paws is a fundraiser for Paw It 4Ward Foundation, which assists local animal rescues with funds to offset medical costs. Kay, who serves as Paw It 4Ward president, founded the Cherry Hill-based nonprofit in 2013. Many of the rescues Paw It 4Ward has assisted in the past will take part in Rock 4 Paws, selling merchandise, raising awareness and showing off adoptable pets.
“It’s a great way for them to step it up and make some money as well,” Kay said, adding all different breeds — from small to large — will be available for adoption.
This year’s participating animal groups include One Love Animal Rescue, All They Need Is Love, West Jersey Volunteers for Animals, Burlington County Animal Alliance, Voorhees Animal Orphanage, Animal Care and Control of Philadelphia, Camden County Animal Shelter and Alpha Bravo Canine.
Attendees are welcome to bring their leashed four-legged friends, and with the vast area Indian Acres Farm offers, Kay said it’s a comfortable, spread-out event for the expected 3,000 guests.
The lead band, which has taken part at every Rock 4 Paws, is the Burlington County-based alternative rock group The DeFused. Also hitting the stage will be The Williamsboy, Danielle and Jennifer, The Jericho Horns with John Cook, and The Count Josephine Band.
“The bands are going to do original songs and cover songs,” Kay said. “The day starts out a little slower with softer music, and as it gets going, it’s a little more rock and roll.”
The fun doesn’t stop with the music. The beer garden, sponsored by Victory Brewing Company, has a $5 admission that includes a drink. Willingboro Veterinary Clinic is bringing exotic reptiles. HousePaws is offering $20 microchipping. Farm animals will be in attendance as well with Mt. Laurel Animal Hospital, which will be bringing a mini goat and baby cow. Last year, an alpaca and mini pigs came out, and Kay hopes they come back, too.
“We’re adding as many resources as we can every year,” Kay said. “The hospitals are great supporters and they’re also great educators. Loving Misfits is bringing its dog collars and donating all profits of the day to our medical fund.”
There’s face painting for the human kids and — so furry kids aren’t left out — Posh Pets will be offering natural and safe dog stenciling for those canines that desire a temporary heart or clover on their side. Indian Acres Park is packed with five playgrounds, and there will be a free moon bounce set up, too.
“It’s fun and awareness,” Kay said of Rock 4 Paws. “A lot of rescues get fosters out of the day, adoptions and even volunteers. It’s a great way to get that community connection.”
While attendees are all incredibly generous with donations, Kay said the majority of Rock 4 Paws fundraising comes from its sponsors. She hopes to see the sponsorship grow with local companies wanting to support local rescues.
“We really want to thank all our sponsors and everyone who gets involved every year and supports us for making this event a success,” Kay said. “I’m very thankful.”
