BELTON, Texas — As the Bell County Animal Shelter grapples with a devastating reality — 628 animals euthanized since the beginning of the year — this weekend's 10th Annual Pet Adoption Extravaganza couldn't come at a more critical time.

The massive two-day event at Cadence Bank Center in Belton, running Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12, represents more than just a family-friendly festival. For hundreds of animals like Rosie, a friendly dog who dreams of car rides instead of kennel walls, it's a lifeline.

"Shelter life is hard on the pets," said representatives from Bell County Animal Shelter. "We want them all to find loving homes. They're all amazing dogs."

What started a decade ago with just 12 organizations and 25 vendors has exploded into something much bigger.

"When we first starte

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