Pet Expo is a two-day consumer show that offers the public a window into the wild, wide world of pets. Whether you own a pet or two or three, or are considering getting one, you can find most anything you need to know at the show. Hundreds of pets, products and service providers are showcased, along with entertainers, clubs and organizations all catering to pets. From the cute and cuddly to the dramatic and exotic, critters of all types can be seen on-site during the show. Retailers, breeders and a vast array of associations and service providers will be on hand to answer all your questions about your furry friends, reptiles and other small caged exotic pets.

Darryl Rosengreen of Canwest Trade Shows Inc. says for the past seven years the show has taken place in the fall, but this year the show has jumped ahead to spring, on April 12 and 13. “We are extremely excited this year ... being our eighth annual, to finally bring this show to the springtime dates,” says Rosengreen. “A lot of exhibitors and attendees alike feel that this is the best time to check out all of the new and exciting products and services for your favorite pet; the parks are turning green ... and the pets want to play!”

It’s true when spring is in the air, thoughts often turn to finding a new friend or companion, and the show can help you decide which species is best for you. When warmer weather hits, some pet owners may have questions about their frisky friends, and where better to find the answers than where all the experts are under one roof?

In addition to products and services, entertainment abounds for the whole family. This year one of the show’s more entertaining elements will be the Ultimate Sports Agility Comedy Show, featuring the world-famous Ulti-Muts. You’ll laugh yourself silly with the pooches’ crazy antics, and the kids will love it. Another must-see will be the petting zoo, where children and adults alike can get a “feel” for some popular pets. Rub, scratch, pet and cuddle to your heart’s desire as these animals just love the attention. “This is a fun-filled family event that is a great time to bring out the kids and let them learn all about the different kinds of pets out there,” says Rosengreen. “The show will teach children all they need to know about taking care of pets, and will help parents learn all about the latest and the greatest in pet products from many of the leading national manufacturers and local retailers.” Visitors will also be given the chance to participate in the Show & Tell Theatre, and learn all about their pets’ needs in the Seminar & Lecture Theatre. These areas will be running throughout the show and are designed to entertain, enlighten and educate the whole family.

“This is the largest consumer pet show in Southern Alberta,” says Rosengreen. “It has everything of interest from dogs, cats, ferrets and hamsters, to snakes, lizards, birds and many more exciting pets.” Located on the Calgary Stampede grounds in the Big Four building, the show runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 13. Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, and just a toonie for kids age six to 11 (and free for children five and under).

To see a list of exhibitors, for full show details on attending, or if you are interested in exhibiting at the show, visit the website at http://www.petexpos.com. If you love pets, or just want to get out and fetch some fun for the whole family, Pet Expo 2008 promises to unleash ideas for young and old.