By KAREN BLOOM
Animal Planet is on the road this summer, visiting 14 communities through August, encouraging people to appreciate the animal population and to be responsible pet owners. Find out about the connection between people and animals when Animal Planet, in partnership with Cablevision and the American Human Association, brings its interactive "Animal Planet Expo" to Robert Moses State Park this weekend. The two-day program, is filled with entertaining and educational activities the entire family can enjoy, including the household pet.So be sure to bring your dog, or any pet for that matter, as long as he or she is kept on leash! This being an Animal Planet production, it's an event where animals are encouraged to take part. "People enjoy participating in an activity where they can take their dog, especially when in it's a park-like setting," explained Michael Hargreaves, Animal Planet's Marketing Manager. Indeed, the animal visitors will be able to explore all the venues with their human counterparts. If they need refreshment or to relax, pets will be able to take a break at the "Pet Watering Hole."For those on two legs, there will be plenty to do, all in keeping with Animal Planet's mission to both entertain and educate consumers on pet awareness and animal safety. "This is a great chance for families to interact with our network in a personal way, " Hargreaves said. A trip to the Expo will include:
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Animal Planet Expo Theater. The "showcase exhibit" in which visitors will experience high-drama animal rescue movies with state-of-the-art audio and visual special effects. The theater also features a special presentation by Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald from the network's hit series "Emergency Vets."
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Frontline & Heartguard Plus E-Vet Clinic. Meet Dr. Fitzgerald and receive information about keeping pets safe and healthy.
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American Humane Association Tent. Learn about the heroic relief efforts of animal rescuers, including how Animal Planet Rescue's 80-foot disaster relief vehicle is used. The Suffolk County SPCA will be on site to work with those interested in adopting a pet.
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Center Stage. The site for live animal handler presentations, including alligators, tarantulas and ferrets, as well as dog agility demonstrations with the "Frisbee Dogs." Also, visitors can participate in Animal Planet trivia contests.
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Animal House. Get an up-close view of some interesting animals. Meet the animal handlers have an informal chat about the unique animals.
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Ranger Rick's Kidzone. Climb a 45-foot wall to simulate animal rescues. There's also face painting, and arts and crafts activities.
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Digital Photo Center. Participants can create digital photos of themselves with wild animals or in an adventurous pose. It's all free, except for the $8 park vehicle fee. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times and may only go to the Expo site. As part of the Animal Planet Expo program, Cablevision will make a $1000 donation to the American Humane Association and a $1500 donation to Suffolk County SPCA.
Animal Planet Expo
Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 2-3, at Robert Moses State Park, Robert Moses Causeway, Babylon. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. More information can be found at www.animalplanetrescue.com
