Becky Andrews loves animals. That is something that will never change. Growing up in a family of animal lovers, her father taught her at an early age how to love and respect all creatures.

Since 2011, she has served as the Director of Smiles Forever Animal Rescue, a non-profit dedicated to rescuing companion animals who are at high risk of being destroyed and giving them a second chance at finding their forever homes. Making veterinarian appointments and processing applications are among her many responsibilities.

Becky, her employees and community volunteers will host a “Smiles Adoption Event” in front of Pet Supplies Plus in Spartan Square each Saturday throughout the rest of the summer.

‘“We have cats, kittens, dogs and puppies,” she said. “By visiting our website or Facebook page, a potential adopter can view some of our adoptable pets and see updates of animals coming into the rescue.” She added, “there is an adoption fee which covers our costs of spaying/neutering, vaccinating and microchipping our adoptable pets.”

Becky credits community volunteers for helping make Smiles Forever Animal Rescue become what it is today. “Without our volunteers, there would be no rescue,” she said. “All of our volunteers work full time jobs but give so much of their free time to secure loving homes for our rescues.”

In January 2016, Smiles Forever Animal Rescue launched the “Smiles Pets for Veterans” program to provide food, basic medical care and transportation for the life of pets. “We partner veterans with our companion animals and waive adoption fees as gratitude for their service” one volunteer shared. “However, we want to make pet ownership a reality for all interested veterans regardless of financial means or ability/means to drive.”

“It has truly been an honor to connect with the veteran community. We are so grateful for their loving homes they provide our adoptable animals,” shared another volunteer. “The feedback we have received about these pets changing the lives of their veteran owners has been remarkable. We are always looking for funding to support this amazing program so we can continue to fill the need of veterans wanting to become pet owners.”