Animals At The Fair

Featuring Braddock Bay, PAWS & a Petting Zoo

Braddock Bay

Hemlock Fair is pleased to welcome back the staff and birds of Braddock Bay Raptor Research (BBRR)! Founded in 1986, BBRR has been continuously working towards preserving the area’s natural resources through research and educational activities. Each year, they bring a variety of raptors to the Fair to help educate our Fairgoers about birds of prey, other wildlife and the environment. The birds that are brought to the Fair are ‘rescues’ who have been rehabilitated and remain at BBRR, primarily due to health issues which make their release back into the wild impossible. Resident birds include a Broad-winged Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Merlin Falcon, and Red-Tailed Hawk. Known as ‘Ambassador’ birds, they are used in educational programs throughout the years to expose people to the wonderful world of raptors. 

Research at Braddock Bay focuses on a range of activities important to conservation efforts, including the daily and seasonal distribution of raptors, the behavior of raptors in migration,and banding of birds to collect biological data. Educational programs are offered throughout the year to expose people to raptors through field experiences as well as off site visits. Popular activities include the ‘Owl Prowl’ and Birds of Prey Days. Consider becoming a volunteer or member to help support the work of BBRR, including the Adopt-a Hawk program which directly supports the banding program. Memberships also make great gifts for anyone interested in raptors and their conservation. As a non-profit, volunteer based organization, your support is important. Visit their website at www.bbrr.org for more information. 

Be sure to visit the Braddock Bay Raptor Research booth in the Ag Expo building at the Fair.

PAWS

The PAWS Animal Education booth is celebrating its 5th year at the Hemlock Fair. The purpose of PAWS is to showcase local animal organizations and bring awareness to animals in need, as well as provide educational information about animal issues and services. Learn about Service and Therapy animals, pet health, and other important topics. We will be providing information about local veterinarians, as well as grooming, boarding, training and other pet services in the area. Learn about our local non-profit organizations and find out how you can help. Participants at PAWS 24 included the Genesee Region Newfoundland Club, SusieQ Dog ResQ, Guiding Eyes, Blue Moon Meadows, and Rochester NY DOgs. THe PAWS booth is open daily from 10am-6pm JOin us for meet and greets, displays, and demonstrations. Donate and spin the PAWS Prize wheel…all donations are distributed to participating organizations. Sincere thanks to our PAWS 24 Sponsors: Lima Veterinary Center, Thompson Builds, Denali Dog Obedience School, Wag-n-Wash and Dog Trainer Paige. 

The Genesee Region Newfoundland Club (GRNC)

The Genesee Region Newfoundland Club (GRNC) is dedicated to the betterment of the Newfoundland Dog and the breed welfare, and acts as a source of information for all lovers of Newfoundland Dog. They sponsor educational activities, draft and water tests, AKC conformation shows and other events during the year. As part of the Newfoundland Club of America, GRNC members support the NCA Rescue Network, and work towards Rescue Prevention thru education and mentoring. Newfs in need are helped to find an appropriate home and family. 

 

Known as “Gentle Giants”, Newfoundland dogs have won the hearts of everyone who meets them!  Newfoundlands are a breed of dogs who are loyal, kind and gentle. The Newfoundland is a large, strong, heavy-coated, active dog equally at home in the water and on land. AS a working dog, they are multi-faceted. Historically in Newfoundland, they were utilized to haul nets and cargo on the wharfs, and rescue sailors and oars that had fallen overboard. They were used to pull carts and sleds, and even accompanied the Lewis & Clark expedition and troops during the first World War. Today, they are utilized throughout the world as water rescue dogs. 

 

Please join us for meet and greets at the PAWS booth!

 

GUIDING EYES PUPPY RAISERS

Volunteer puppy raisers prepare puppies for guide dog training. People of all ages have been successful puppy raisers. Raisers bring puppies to their homes to care and help them become confident, relaxed, and well-mannered in all settings, and to begin learning the skills a future guide dog needs. Puppy raisers work closely with the Regional Team during their 12 to 18-month puppy-raising journey. They young adult dogs then return to Guiding Eyes training staff for harness training. 

Puppy raisers take pride in knowing they have done something special. All their hard work culminates when a person who is blind or visually impaired receives their priceless gift-a guide dog providing independence, companionship, and mobility.

SUSIEQ DOG RESQ

SusieQ Dog ResQ is a local rescue which started in 2006. Their goal is to save lives and find the best possible homes for animals in need. They are foster based rescue providing a safe, loving place until the animal’s forever home is found. Originally focused on dogs, cats and other animals have also benefited from SusieQ’s help. 

Some people may say one person can’t make a difference, but SusieQ Dog ResQ has made a difference for many animals that are now enjoying life with loving families. They recently completed their 2,000th adoption. 

As  a non-profit organization, SusieQ Dog ResQ depends on donations and fundraisers to support their mission. Their primary fundraiser is a huge yard sale held this year on JUly 11th, 12th, and 13th. Stop by to find some treasures and support a great cause! Find information at their website (www.susieqdogresq.com), on their Facebook page (SusieQ Dog ResQ) or email them (papillon1254@rochester.rr.com)

Ultimate Air Dogs

Dock diving showcases the athletic abilities of a variety of dogs as they run down a dock and fly into a pool to retrieve a toy thrown by their handler. The jumps are called “SPLASHES” and each dog gets two chances to jump as far as they can. The distance is judged from the end of the dock nearest the waters’ edge, to the base of the dog’s tail. The current record for distance jumping is over 36 feet. While we may not see records set at the Fair, a good time will be had by everyone! What is better on a hot summer day than a splash of cool, refreshing water?!? Come join us for the fun! 

PARTY ANIMALS PETTING ZOO

ROBIN'S HEAVENLY BIRDS

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VISIT THE FAIR 2025