Abandoned, neglected, abused, and generally unwanted, dogs and cats have a hero in Leonard Rizzo.

That regard is mutual. After all, at the sixth annual Lennie’s Kids “Rescue Rally” held at Tryon Estates on May 22 to raise money for local animal rescue efforts, Rizzo wore a shirt that announced, “My therapist has a wet nose,” and pictured an adorable dog.

When Rizzo, a New York City native, moved to Polk County, he knew there were animals in trouble. His response was to launch a fund to help them find suitable homes, where they and their people were equally pleased.

At the May 22 event, silent and live auctions of donated merchandise raised money. Rizzo also regularly drew names, awarding prizes to those people.

Rizzo confided to the audience the difficult emotions experienced by those involved in animal rescue, which he termed “the most incredibly inspiring job possible.”

“You try to pick up the pieces of damage you didn’t do . . . You learn to stand up for what matters,” Rizzo noted.

Also in attendance were several rescue animals, including Jackson, a small black dog whose previous life included the horror of being abused by larger canines. Jackson was recently adopted by Reggie and Dale Drake, who have provided a mutually loving home.

Rizzo, also known as “Uncle Lennie,” writes a column for the Tryon Daily Bulletin. He’s authored a book, “A Voice in the Hills: A Man Making a Difference.”

Among those benefitting from the fundraiser was Forever Dream Senior Dog Sanctuary of Tryon and Foothills Humane Society, which provide homes for animals that would otherwise be put down.

Hundreds of dogs and cats benefitted as well.