It’s incredibly difficult for senior dogs to find forever homes, as they are often overlooked at shelters and rescues. That’s why a group of dog-lovers in Florida decided to help these elderly animals out by throwing them a “senior prom.”

The prom was held at a pet supply store called The Dog House of Safety Harbor, which donates a portion of all its proceeds to animal rescues. Dozens of local animal rescue groups were invited to bring dogs between the ages of 5 and 15 to the fun event!

“Thousands of dogs need to be adopted in the Tampa Bay area,” said Terry Meeks, one of the founders of the event. “All too often, our senior canines are passed by when people look to adopt. These dogs have the richest history and the greatest temperaments. They need to be able to live out the rest of their lives in a stable, loving home. The prom will help these senior canines get the recognition they deserve and find their ‘furever’ homes.”

The event included a red carpet that gave the dogs the chance to show off the outfits they were wearing. These sweet senior darlings came to the show dressed to the nines!

During the prom, the dogs were able to meet potential owners who were looking for animals like them to adopt. This was their chance to find the loving forever homes that they deserve!

Activities at the prom included entertainment by an MC and her doggie sidekick, a raffle, a kissing booth and of course lots of dancing.

A panel of judges chose the prom king and queen, and the king was named as Tye, an 8-year-old Chihuahua mix rescued by Canine Estates.

“He was rescued from someone who became ill and could no longer take care of him,” explained Karen Altieri, a volunteer with the event. “He’s been at Canine Estates for nine months.”

Meanwhile, a 10-year-old pit bull mix named Nina was crowned prom queen.

“She was a stray wandering the streets of Tampa when Hillsborough Animal Services picked her up,” Altieri said. “She wasn’t given much of a chance to be adopted out. Due to her being a senior and no space at the county shelter she was put on the Euth List. Ruff Beginnings pulled her the day she was going to be put down.”

Over forty dogs attended the prom, and six of them have been adopted since then! Find out more about this prom in the video below!