Lake Junaluska has teamed up with Sarge’s Animal Rescue to celebrate the joy of exploring the mountains with four-legged companions while helping deserving shelter dogs find their forever homes.
As part of the partnership, adoptable dogs from Sarge’s Animal Rescue in Waynesville recently visited Lake Junaluska for a special photo shoot highlighting some of the property’s most scenic locations. The resulting images will be used to raise awareness about pet adoption while showcasing Lake Junaluska as a welcoming destination for travelers with dogs.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with Lake Junaluska and bring awareness to Sarge’s in a place that welcomes so many dog lovers,” said Emily Trigin, events and fundraising coordinator for Sarge’s Animal Rescue. “The lake has become a special part of our rescue community, where our alumni return with their new families, our volunteers enjoy walks with adoptable dogs and our trainers work with dogs in a beautiful, calm environment.”
Whether visiting for the day or planning an overnight getaway, guests will find plenty to enjoy alongside their canine companions. Several lodging accommodations at Lake Junaluska welcome dogs, making it easy to extend a mountain escape without leaving pets behind.
After a walk along Lake Junaluska’s 3.8-mile lakeside trail system, visitors can stop by Junaluska Gifts & Grounds for coffee, refreshments and a pup cup, then relax on the outdoor patio overlooking the lake. Just steps away, Crepe & Custard offers lakeside outdoor seating where guests can enjoy sweet and savory treats with their dogs by their side.
“Our hope is that this partnership not only helps more dogs find loving homes, but also lets people know that Lake Junaluska is a wonderful place to make memories with their own pets,” said Mike Huber, general manager of Lake Junaluska.
The photo shoot captured adoptable dogs enjoying some of Lake Junaluska’s iconic outdoor spaces, demonstrating that adventures are even better when shared with a furry friend. By spotlighting these dogs in a beautiful setting, Lake Junaluska and Sarge’s Animal Rescue hope to inspire both pet adoption and future visits from dog-loving travelers.
Visitors interested in bringing their dogs to Lake Junaluska can learn more about pet-friendly lodging and amenities by visiting lakejunaluska.com.
Those interested in adopting a pet, fostering, volunteering or supporting Sarge’s Animal Rescue can learn more at sarges.org, call 828-246-9050 or visit the shelter Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
