A new critter companion may be waiting for you at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo during Meet Your Best Friend at the Zoo, one of the largest animal adoption events in the area. Dozens of animal rescue organizations will be on hand with more than 100 adoptable dogs, cats, puppies and kittens on Saturday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Participating rescue groups and shelters will offer advice on choosing the right pet and how best to care for it. All dogs and cats will have received a health check-up and age-appropriate vaccinations. Each organization sets its own adoption fees and policies, and some require a waiting period.

More than 700 pets have been adopted through the Zoo’s event since its start in 2001. The event takes place under tents outside the Zoo on the Ticket Plaza and is free. For health and safety reasons, visitors should leave their current pets at home.

Northeast Ohio’s most-visited year-round attraction, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $12.25 per person, $8.25 for kids ages 2 to 11 and free for children younger than 2 and Zoo members. Parking is free. Located at 3900 Wildlife Way, the Zoo is easily accessible from Interstates 71, 90 and 480.

For more information, visit clemetzoo.com or call (216) 661-6500.