By Karen Bloom
There are plenty of dogs and cats ready to greet visitors during the three-day event, Nov. 10-12, with continuous shows and attractions. If Fido or Sassy needs something special, there are 100 vendors selling all sorts of pet-related products, ranging from handmade items to leashes and the latest the pet industry has to offer.
Educational demonstrations and seminars are held throughout the three days, featuring animal experts who who entertain and inform on a variety of topics.
Dog lovers will want to head right over to the Dog Arena. There, Elite Dog Trainers of America will teach fundamentals of obedience training, dog tricks, with a special program for children. The Extreme Canine Stunt Show presents fur-flying fun for the entire family. See dogs soar, spin, jump and fly! And don¹t miss Rick Caran and his performing dog, ³Jilli.²
A pet fashion show is presented this year, featuring the latest in fashions and accessories for your dog.
And, always a favorite with the Expo crowd, Karen Kober Animal Communication unveils the secrets of dog communication using mental telepathy, and teaches how animals aid in human healing.
Then there are those fabulous felines. There¹s no business quite like cat show business, as you¹ll see at this year¹s Pet Expo! New this year is The International Cat Association Show, hosted by Gold Coast Cat Fanciers Association.
The first annual ³Cool Weather International Cat Show brings together cats, exhibitors, and judges from all over the United States and Canada. It¹s an opportunity to see many exotic cats, including the Abyssinian, Bengal, Main Coon, Persian, Ragdoll, Scottish Fold, Selkirk Rex, Siberian, Sphinx, and Toyger.
Visitors will discover the thrill of competition, the glamour, the ³kitty glitter,² and that magic moment when one lucky feline stands out, sets the cat show world on his tail, and wins the coveted ³Best Cat² award!
For the purebred participants, it¹s time to be judged against the written standard for their breed. Show stars will be brushed, fluffed, powdered, petted, pampered and groomed like models for the events. They¹ll be displayed in elaborate cages and put on their best well-bred behavior in hopes of catching the judge¹s fancy.
Hopefuls in the Household Pet category will also strut their stuff as judges eye every furry inch to select the best Household Pets. In addition to good looks, Household Pets are also judged on personality, style and conditions. Every cat has the opportunity to be a ³Top Cat².
Besides the dogs and cats, there are many other animals to see and learn about. They are featured in up-close and personal in many interactive demonstrations and workshops.
The Rainforest Reptile Show is an entertaining way to see snakes, turtles, lizards, alligators and other indigenous rainforest creatures, while educating families about the importance of rainforest preservation. The Long Island Pot-Bellied Pig Association will feature trick performances by these endearing pigs, as well as educating potential pot-bellied pig owners about adoption procedures and care. Having your picture taken with your favorite pot-bellied pig is a must! The Parrot Fanciers Club will have educational programs about birds of all feathers and adoption. Also, don¹t miss the cute and cuddly Alpacas!
³The Long Island Pet Expo is known for its entertainment value, as well as for the educational components that are featured at every exhibit and at most of our booths,² said Pet Expo spokeswoman Karen Garetano. ³Owning a pet or animal requires care, and responsible pet ownership is highlighted at each and every Pet Expo.²
The Long Island Pet Expo supports the dozens of animal shelters and agencies who will be exhibiting at this year¹s show. If your family is thinking about getting a pet, speak to one of the shelters at the Pet Expo, so they can help find the pet that¹s right for you.
Thinking about bringing your children to see all of the fascinating animals? Besides seeing the many creatures and attractions, children can take a ride on a friendly elephant or camel as well as the ever popular pony rides.
Bring your family and friends, but please leave your own pets at home. Tickets may be purchased at the Nassau Coliseum on the day of the show.
The Long Island Pet Expo
Friday through Sunday, Nov. 10-12. Hours: Nov. 10, noon-7 p.m.; Nov. 11, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale. (631) 423-0620 or www.longislandpetexpo.com.
Visitors can enter the popular Pet Photo Contest, sponsored by Animal Emergency Services. Information on submitting your photos for the contest can be found on the website. Photos are displayed at the show.
