May is National Pet Month, and Mulberry Art Studios, 19-21 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster, will host its fifth annual "We Love Our Pets" art show in celebration of the animals that bring so much joy to people's lives. The art show will feature 236 pieces of artwork from 148 local artists in a multitude of mediums. An opening reception will be held on First Friday, May 5, from 5 to 9 p.m. The public is invited to view the art, meet the artists, browse tables staffed by seven local pet-related vendors and meet rescue dogs from The Sebastian Foundation for Animal Rescue.

Mulberry Art Studios owner April Koppenhaver conceived the idea for the "We Love Our Pets" art show after the deaths of her dog, Milo, in November 2018 and her husband, Charlie, less than two months later. Milo was a rescue dog that had become the unofficial mascot of Mulberry Art Studios after April adopted him. The art show was created to honor Milo and Charlie.

Mulberry Art Studios has once again selected local animal rescue The Sebastian Foundation as the nonprofit to benefit from this exhibit. There is no fee to attend the event, but donations will be received for the foundation. Started in 2004 by Amy Garrety, The Sebastian Foundation works to facilitate the adoption of unwanted animals, offering a second chance to pets that have been surrendered due to circumstances outside of their control or that have ended up in high-kill shelters.

"We Love Our Pets" will be available for viewing throughout May. For more information, to make an appointment to view the show or for more details about The Sebastian Foundation, email gallery curator Stephanie Clayton-Kulfan at Stephanie.MulberryArt@gmail.com. Mulberry Art Studios is located in historic downtown Lancaster and offers free parking in its private lot.