The Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is opening its heart and gardens to a group of four-footed friends from Monty's Home.

The first, Pet Ed 101, is dedicated to teaching children how to safely interact with dogs. This is accomplished through an interactive program using fun activities, games, and songs.

The second, Rainbow Bridge Journey, provides grief support for people whose pets are seriously ill or have died.

Lastly, the program that Monty's Home is best known for is the Pawsitive Partners Prison Program that involves Monty's Home rescuing dogs from a local shelter and placing them in two local correctional facilities-New Hanover and Pender. There, the dogs are cared for and trained by inmates for eight weeks under the supervision of Monty's Home volunteers. After graduation, the dogs go home with their adoptive families. The PPPP is a real winner-for the dogs, the inmates, and the community at large.

All of these Monty's Home programs exist solely on fundraising efforts and donations. The state covers none of the expenses for the rescue dogs' care, vet bills, or supplies. For more information about Monty's Home, visit their website at www.montyshome.org or "like" them on Facebook.