By Karen Bloom
The animal lover's extravaganza showcases the area's largest collection of pets, pet products and pet services, all under on roof next week at Nassau Coliseum. "Our pet expos is designed to promote responsible pet ownership and care in an entertaining and educational venue. We encourage the various animal groups to present educational shows, especially the rescue groups. We want the rescue groups to get their message out and talk to as many people as possible," said Pet Expo spokeswoman Karen Garetano.There are plenty of dogs and cats ready to greet visitors during the three-day event, Nov. 11-13, with continuous shows and attractions. In the dog arena, Elite Dog Trainers of America will teach obedience training fundamentals and dog tricks. The Classic K-9 Dog Show features fast-paced competitive activities, including barrel racing agility relays and high jumping. Also be sure to check out Rick Caran and his performing dog, Jilli, and learn the secrets of dog communication from animal communication expert Karen Kober.Some fabulous felines will show off their "paw-inspiring" talents, along with presentations on how to give our cats the mental and physical stimulation they need to stay happy and healthy. If Fido or Sassy needs something special, there 100 vendors selling all sorts of pet-related products, ranging from handmade items to leashes and the latest the pet industry has to offer.For those interested in adopting, the North Shore Animal League, Little Shelter and the Huntington Animal League will bring animals in need of loving homes who can be adopted during the event, including pets rescued from Hurricane Katrina.The Nassau and Suffolk County SPCAs, local adoption agencies, along with many rescue groups will be on hand with information on responsible pet ownership. More than 30 rescue groups, associations and breed clubs participate including the Long Island Golden Retriever Club, Labrador Retriever Rescue, The Long Island Greyhound Transfer, Long Island Shetland Sheepdog Club, Tri-State Basset Hound, Mastiff Club, Priceless Parrot Rescue, American Ferret Club, and Rabbit Rescue, among others.Besides the dogs and cats, there are many other animals to see and learn about, including birds, reptiles, pot-bellied pigs, among other creatures. They are featured in up-close and personal in many interactive demonstrations and workshops.Featured this year are:
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Rainforest Reptile Show - Herpetologist Michael and Joanney Ralbovshy, founders/owners of Rainforest Reptiles discuss the importance of rainforest preservation. Examine snakes, turtles, lizards, and alligators, all indigenous to the rainforest.
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Creepy Critters Show - Get a close-up look at frogs and bugs, including a frog jumping contest.
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Animal Communication with Karen Kober - See how Kober uses mental telepathy to "converse" with all animal species.And for those who think their pets have special talents, representatives from the Late Show With David Letterman will be at the Expo, conducting tryouts for the infamous "Stupid Pet Tricks" segment. It's an opportunity for Long Islanders and their pets to enjoy their 15 minutes of fame!
The Long Island Pet Expo
Friday through Sunday, Nov. 11-13. Hours: Nov. 11, noon-10:30 p.m.; Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Nov. 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $11 adult; $6 children ages 11 and under. Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale. (516) 794-9303 or www.longislandpetexpo.com.
Late Show With David Letterman's Stupid Human Pet Tricks
Auditions take place on Sunday, Nov. 13, from 2-4 p.m. Bring your pets and their best tricks to audition to get on the show. Tricks must be fun, unique and safe. All types of animals are welcome. To register, call (888) PET-TRIK.
