One day each summer, fans of the Martinsville Mustangs gather to support their baseball team by stomping their feet, clapping their hands and ... wagging their tails? The annual event is called Bark in the Park, and it's one of many efforts by the Henry County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to make Martinsville a pet haven. Dogs are asked to refrain from fetching fly balls.

In addition to its standard adoption services, the SPCA offers low-price grooming and sterilization. Members of the SPCA have access to its leashless dog park, a canine country club that features walking trails, and an agility course to keep dogs mentally sharp and physically fit.