Parade of Ponds benefits animal shelter

For the 28th year, Carter’s Nursery in Jackson has organized the Parade of Ponds to benefit Jackson Animal Care and Control Center. 

Customers of the nursery graciously allow visitors to visit their grounds. The pond tour, held on June 27, began at Carter’s where visitors received directions to six other locations.

“It’s a great way to get ideas.There are all kinds of setups, some with koi ponds, some yards with pondless features or recirculating waterfalls. It shows people the different options for their own yards. You always want inspiration,” said Nicole Mayo, Carter’s office manager. 

The Summer Parade of Ponds is held in the daytime. In September, Carter’s hosts the Moonlight Pond Tour at night which also benefits the Center. 

Tickets are $20 with funds directed to the medical costs of animals at the Center according to Whitney Owen, Animal Services Director. “We don’t use the money to pay utility bills, salaries or anything else. It goes straight into the medical program and vet bills for the dogs in our care, “ she said.

Debbie Sullivan was one of six homeowners to participate in the Parade of Ponds. She and husband Joe McAlexander welcome visitors on the pond tours and enjoy sharing their backyard paradise. “We love it out here. You don’t have to travel, just stay home. We had a river house but we don’t now. We stay-cation all year, right here,” said Sullivan as her own adopted dog wandered over. 

The next benefit for the Animal Care and Control Center is the annual Pets Rock set for July 25 at Jackson Fairgrounds from 10:am-4:00pm. Rescue and welfare groups will have animals available for adoption among the many activities. “We’ll have 50 vendors with merchandise, food trucks, vouchers for spaying and neutering for those who live in Madison County. One group will be set up to microchip dogs for $20 so it’s going to be a fun day with a lot of things going on, “ Owen said.

One of the largest draws for Pets Rock is Dock Dogs, in which dogs compete in a 28,000 gallon swimming pool with skills like high jump, long jump, speed retrieve. Owen said the contest draws people from other states because it will qualify the local winner for the national competition. Jackson is the only West Tennessee stop on the circuit.