It was an animal lover’s paradise at the NL Pet Expo over the weekend at the Glacier Arena in Mount Pearl.
There were nearly as many animals at the event as there were people, with animals ranging from pigs to horses and plenty of dogs.
Booths catered to all sorts of pet needs, including pet treats, supplies, and insurance, and also featured many animal rescue organizations, such as Hoppy Homes.
The family-friendly, volunteer-run event is the main fundraiser for Beagle Paws, a beagle rescue organization that promotes beagles as family pets and helps prevent their abuse and neglect.
The Expo typically raises about $20,000 every year.
“We generally on any day can have up to 50 beagles that we’re responsible for, either waiting to be adopted, or in long-term foster,” said organizer Sheila Lewis.
“We get a lot of senior dogs, dogs that have out-lived their hunting usefulness, and sometimes they come to us with ailments that are expensive to look after, so we provide the care for them.”
Beagle Paws’ veterinary bills throughout the year are over $130,000 a year.
“So that’s why this event is very important to help us. Well, it helps us get through the summer, anyway.”
Lewis said planning for the event begins in the fall, so anyone interesting in participating next year by either having a booth or volunteering to help organize the event can get in touch this fall. More information can be found at www.nlpetexpo.com.
Twitter: @juanitamercer_
