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Wiener dog races a highlight of Vancouver Island Pet Expo

Pet Expo runs May 25 and 25 at Pearkes Recreation Centre in Saanich

Wiener dog races, doggie dancing, pet fashion shops and Saanich Police dogs will entertain the crowds this weekend at Pearkes recreation centre.

Bring your love of pets, but leave the dog at home, says Vancouver Island Pet Expo organizer Jill Stefanyk.

“That is just for the safety of everyone at the expo,” she said. “There’s a lot of animals to see at the event … there’s no shortage of animals there.”

The wiener dog races, a staple of the annual expo that’s grown in popularity since inception, will see a pool of pups compete head to head.

“They’re growing every year. I think we have 30 wiener dogs registered to race each day,” Stefanyk said.

The fun-filled family pet expo features pet-related vendors, along with unique entertainment.

“There’s lots of exciting exhibitors, and they vary each year,” Stefanyk said. “Also adoption is one of the big components of the event.”

Last year 10 animals found forever homes in the CRD-sponsored Pet Adoption Centre. The indoor adoption area, available for use by non-profit groups that have adoptable cats and dogs, will be large enough for the animals to walk around and stretch their paws while they interact with potential adoptive families.

Also this year, Heroes Inc. will be on hand to help raise funds for the Greater Victoria Animal Crusaders. Take a picture with your favourite superhero, or all of them, on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. GVAC will also get partial proceeds from ticket sales.

The expo runs May 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and May 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Pearkes Recreation Centre (3100 Tillicum Rd.).

Visit vancouverislandpetexpo.com for a detailed schedule and ticket information.

reporter@saanichnews.com