Dogs run through the lure course, releasing energy and testing their agility. (submitted photo).
OAKS — The Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo takes place March 10-12 with fur-flying entertainment, canine sports fun, and educational programs for the whole family. The event is again hosted by the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center and features many special attractions, pet adoption, and excellent shopping for pet lovers and their pets.
“This event is the biggest and most popular show we do,” said Karen Galetano, show co-producer at Family Pet Show, which runs several similar events in the Northeast.
Many special exhibits always feature the hottest new products that frequently appear before hitting retail shelves. Pets on a leash are always welcome, and several community rescue groups with adoptable pets are on standby. Popular performers and presenters include Gail Mirabella. Dynamo Disc Dogs and a new program, Dynamo Dogs – are back with dog sports of all kinds! Dog Lovers Lure Course, Rainforest Reptiles, Rabbit Hopping, TICA Cat Show, Special Alpaca Exhibit and more.
“While we always enjoy these events, we are also strong advocates of responsible pet ownership and humane values when it comes to all issues involving animals and pets. We partner with community organizations, shelters, veterinarians and other animal lovers to educate and inform them about best practices in all aspects of training, feeding and pet care.”
Community and rescue organizations participating in the show include Greater Philadelphia Search and Rescue, Noah’s Ark Rescue and Sanctuary, Philadelphia Bully Team, Animal House Project, No More Forgotten Felines, 3 Hasketers Rescue, Brandywine Valley SPCA, and others.
The event is expected to attract over 10,000 attendees over the weekend. Friday, March 10 is Family Night, kids under 12 are free, and adult admission is $15 the rest of the weekend. Children ages 4-11 are $6 and ages 3 and under are always free. Friday 4-9 PM, Saturday, March 12, 10-7 PM, and Sunday, March 13, 10-5 PM. For more information, call (631) 423-0620 or visit www.familypetshows.com.
Note: Participants may bring well-behaved pets to the Expo. There are some regulations and restrictions per COVID. Check out his website at www.familypetshows.com.
About this year’s featured performers/presenters:
Dynamo “Disc” Dogs and Dynamo Dogs – All Kinds of Dog Sports
You can teach old dogs new tricks – these seasoned acting dogs knock the audience’s socks off with trick dog show routines, frisbee dog acrobatics and dynamite performances. Gail and her canine friends will wow crowds, as they do all over the country.
Dog lover’s day lure course
That popular event is back! Dogs run through lure courses, releasing energy and testing their agility. The dogs love zipping around this course and it’s fun to watch.
Rainforest Reptile Show
An exciting and captivating adventure through the world of rare and endangered reptiles! Many exotic reptiles take part in the show, which children and adults alike can learn about.
TICA Championship Cat Show
For cat lovers who have never been to a cat show, this is a pure way to see different breeds of cats up close.
brahman’s gas
Meet an American Brahman Steer to sit and have your photo taken.Saturdays and Sundays only
Rabbit hopping
Rabbit Hopping, it’s not bunny hopping you’re thinking of, it’s talented rabbits who love to jump! There are also demonstrations and seminars where you can learn how to participate in this sport with your own rabbit.
guinea pig agility
Check out our guinea pig agility course. You can try this course, so please bring your guinea pig.
alpaca
Behold the softest, cutest, most cuddly creatures you’ve ever met. In the area where you can meet colorful and gentle alpacas up close, you can experience the softness of the baby alpaca, which is said to be the “softest fiber” among the world’s baby alpaca! There are educational exhibits where you can learn about these beautiful animals. AKC Good Citizen Testing — Testing provided at the Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo. All breeds and mixed breeds are welcome. Please check the website for information.
