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Central PA Pet Expo fulfills this writer’s passion for pets

I have a tote bag that I received once at a pet event that reads: People and Pets are our Passion. Mine should simply read: Pets are my Passion.

Aside from my Sunday pet column in the Mirror and my pet blog on www.altoonamirror.com, I also serve as editor of our bi-annual Central PA Pets magazine, published each April and October.

However, the event that stands as one of my greatest passions is taking place today!

The eighth annual Central PA Pet Expo will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the Blair County Convention Center in Altoona. Parking is free, and admission is only $5 per person.

I invite you to grab your friends and family and come on out to this family-friendly event.

While we work hard to bring lots of pet-related entertainment, our No. 1 goal is to provide information and education to help attendees be the best pet parents they can be.

Each year, we host at least a dozen area animal rescues/shelters at no cost to them, thanks to business sponsors who help defray their expense.

They will each have several pets for adoption, along with information on their organization and often pet items for sale with proceeds benefiting the animals.

We are also thrilled to have so many veterinary clinics and hospitals take part in our event, providing attendees with the opportunity to talk to and interact one-on-one with the vets and their staff. Got a question about your pet? Perhaps you need to find a vet? This is the place!

In addition, the Altoona Area Kennel Association will be on board, as they have been since year one, to share not only more than two dozen different breeds of dogs — giving people an opportunity to learn about various breeds before considering adoption, but they also put on an incredible parade of breeds, along with agility and obedience demonstrations.

Our 2017 special guest is Shorty Rossi from his famed TV show, “The Pit Boss,” on Animal Planet.

He will hold a special speaking engagement at 4:30 p.m., immediately following the show, to talk about breed-specific legislation; his pit bulls, including Francis, who travels with him; spay and neuter; and rescue, among other topics. There will be a one-on-one meet-and-greet with him immediately following his talk. Tickets are only $25 and include admission to the expo that day. They can be purchased at the admission counter. Part of the proceeds will benefit a rescue to be named at the seminar.

Jeff Wright and his dazzling, world-class team of Flying Houndz Frizbee Trick Dogs will also take center stage for two shows.

In addition, Rik, the new K9 for the Blair County Sheriff’s Depart-ment, will be on hand for a dem-onstration, as will the Heaven Scent Search and Rescue Blood-hound Team.

Centre County Wildlife will pre-sent a program about Centre Wildlife Care, natural history of wild animals and what to do if you find a wild animal that needs help.

Cold Blooded and Company will be on hand to help educate attendees on reptiles and their habitats.

For cat lovers, we have cat rescues and the world famous CoCo The Couture Cat, who will once again grace the event with her dazzling wardrobe and book that she has authored, with proceeds to benefit rescue.

There will be pet vendors featuring products and information for your pets and family.

If you have a bit of time this afternoon, pack up the family and head to the Blair County Conven-tion Center and join us at the Central PA Pet Expo. If you love pets, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone. Hope to see you there!

Email Amy Hanna-Eckenrode at ahanna@altoonamirror.com.

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