• Why Should You Go To a Pet Expo?

The World of Pets Expo was a blast! I loved the high-flying canine athletes, the dog agility trials, the miniature horses, the costumes at the Guinea-Pig-A-Thon, and snuggling with my all-time favorite piggie, Papua Piig.

But I think what I enjoyed most was the thousands of dogs that people brought with them. I saw my first Cane Corso, with a head that was bigger—and harder—than a bowling bowl. Another "first" was a Leonburger. Check out the short video I made!

So, why go to a pet expo? I went to bone up (pun intended) on anything that might help me as a pet sitter. There are dozens more reasons to attend.

• If you're thinking of getting a pet, an expo is a great place to do research. You can learn about breeds from rescue groups and clubs. Your kids can get hands-on experience with different breeds. World of Pets rescue groups included Bouviers, Brittanys, Dachshunds, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Greyhounds, Westies, and Yorkies. Cat, ferret, guinea pig, rabbit, and turtle and tortoise rescue groups also took part.

• If you have questions about your pet's health or behavior, veterinarians, trainers, and others give presentations on wellness, emergency care, grooming, dental care, and other pertinent topics.

• If you're tired of spending money on treats your pet doesn't like, vendors always give away treats. Food manufacturers are on hand to answer questions.

• If you have kids who like animals, an expo will showcase pets such as gerbils, guinea pigs, ferrets, sugar gliders, macaws, parrots, snakes, lizards, fish, goats, and chickens. One World of Pets had a capybara, monkeys, a wild cat, and more.

• If you need a gift for a pet or pet owner, an expo is like a pet store on steroids. You'll find the unusual, like lighted dog collars and french-fry-shaped dog snacks. For people, expos are a treasure trove of animal-themed ornaments, clothing, household items, magnets, signs, accessories—you name it.
To find a show near you, Google "pet expo." Have you been to one? Tell me about it! I'm sure that every pet expo is different. But I'm certain they all have one thing in common: Fun!