N.L. Pet Expo takes place this weekend

The 12th annual Newfoundland and Labrador Pet Expo gets underway this weekend at the Mount Pearl Glacier.

There are new events and exhibitors, said a representative of Beagle Paws, which holds the annual fundraiser.

The N.L. Pet Expo showcases pet products, animals rescue and welfare groups, and everything pet-friendly.

“It’s a little-known fact that Beagle Paws and our volunteers actually organize this entire event as our major fundraiser for the year,” Sheila Lewis, Beagle Paws founder and president, stated in a news release. “We pride ourselves on having a fun, relaxed event where pet enthusiasts can come out and enjoy themselves and purchase products for their pets, as well as learn about new products and techniques.”

This year’s event features dogs, cats, goats, bunnies, mini-pigs, a therapy horse, the Beagle Paws kissing booth and a few canine celebrities in the Pet Stars of Instagram feature.

Throughout the two-day event, demonstrations will take place on the main stage, including fly ball, rabbit agility, the popular hot dog wiener dog races and the second annual My Pet’s Got Talent contest.

“There is a little something here for everyone and we hope everyone gets a chance to take a stroll through and visit our incredible exhibitors this weekend,” Lewis stated. “Every dollar we raise through admission and by donation goes directly into rescuing and rehoming beagles in Newfoundland. Beagle Paws is celebrating its 15th year and while things are getting better for the beagle breed overall, our intake numbers are still incredibly high compared to other dog breeds and much more work needs to be done. The money raised this weekend helps us with our veterinary bills, which are now over $130,000 every year.”

The expo runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. General admission is $7, and kids age five and under get in free. Weekend passes are available for $12.

For a schedule of events and exhibitor list, visit nlpetexpo.com or Facebook by searching NL Pet Expo or through the Beagle Paws Facebook group.

Follow @nlpetexpo and @beaglepaws on Twitter and the Instagram page @ beaglepawsnl. Also visit www.beaglepaws.com for more information.