Dunkleys Pet Expo returns
after public persuasion

A boy and his best friend at the Pet Expo in 2005

THE very popular NZ Pet Expo is returning to New Zealand's South Island this year. It will be held on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August 2009 from 10am-5pm daily at the Addington Raceway and Events Centre, Christchurch.

Ticket will be sold at the door or ph. 03-3480-572. Adults $12, Seniors $10, Under 16 years $6, Family pass (2 adults or seniors and 2 under 16) $30.

The show for pet-lovers - the Dunkleys Pet Expo is the South Island’s largest and most popular pet extravaganza, and is back in Christchurch after a four-year absence. The Christchurch Expo will be the only one this year, but it is hoped to hold one in Hamilton as well, next year, in May.

A Dunkleys staff member said: "Since the last Pet Expo in 2005, we have been hounded (excuse the pun) by animal breeders, the pet industry, and by the pet-mad public to hold another expo." It is not hard to find the reason why so many want the Expo to return.

Dunkleys Pet Expo is New Zealand's premier public promotion for all sectors of the pet industry, including all issues associated with the responsible ownership and care of companion animals.

Pet Expo offers the public the opportunity to see, touch and appreciate the widest range of pets on offer in New Zealand.

A ready smile from this retriever is just the beginning of many friendships.

It also features a huge range of animal-related products and services needed to make a pet's life fuller, fitter and more fun.

Activities at the expo include individual cat, dog, bird, rabbit and cavy displays; dog agility and canine sports demonstrations; pony and donkey rides; breed and educational talks; equestrian events; animal magic shows; prizes and give-aways (and much more) in this fun family expo.

For further information, phone (03) 348 0572, email shows@dunkleys.co.nz or check out www.craftshows.co.nz and click on the Pet Expo link. Dunkleys also hosts the Great NZ Craft Show, the Bizzone Business Expo, the Vegetarian Expo and the NZ Outdoor Adventure Expo.

Organisers, Christchurch-based Fiona and Kim Dunkley, are well-known for their Great New Zealand Craft Show, which they bring to town every September. “We will have some of the cutest animals imaginable, that you can actually touch and get up close to. Hundreds of different pets and their owners will be there.”

A retriever family just begging for attention from passers-by.

Dog breeds will also be fully represented. “We’ve got everything from the miniature toy dogs right up to the huge Leonbergers. Visitors to the Pet Expo are able to see breeds they wouldn’t even know existed.”

And along with all the breeds and activities, the Pet Expo also showcases all the accessories, pet foods and pet-related services needed to make an animal’s life fuller, fitter and more fun. There are heaps of show specials and discounts and the public are encouraged to buy directly from the exhibitors at the Expo. EFTPOS is available for cash withdrawal.

Also included in the Dog Hall are a variety of services and accessories associated with dogs - grooming, boarding kennels, dog foods, dog trainers, dog accessories, and much more.

We also have a full timetable of dog events and activities in the Royal Canin Dog Arena – hosted by Craig and Tracey Murray, two of Australia’s top dog trainers and entertainers. In the arena will be a full timetable of events including Dancing with Dogs; obedience demonstrations; flyball; agility demonstrations; a choreographed canine fashion parade set to music; pedigree breeds display; sledge dog races; and a farm dog that herds ducks.

The Royal Canin dog stage has a full timetable as well. Everything from talks about choosing the right puppy to demonstrations of first aid for dogs. There’s also a “bling” parade for small dogs and talks about how to make your dog a good citizen.

There will be heaps of pet products for sale. Heaps of discounts and show specials. And plenty of pet food samples to take home.

Pet Services and Accessories include obedience training, veterinarian advice and supplies, pet medical plans and insurance, dog kennels and runs, flea products, pet foods, pet bean bags and bedding, dog grooming, pet funerals, bird aviaries and accessories, animal photography, pet magazine, fish aquariums and supplies, and much, much more.

• All exhibits and animals are indoors or under cover. All outdoor activities will be moved to the new stables if the weather is bad.
• Meet the breeders and find out all about the different animals.
• Talk to the experts about all your pet needs.
• Where possible interaction between the animals and the public is encouraged.
• There will be several cafeterias and hot food stands serving food and refreshments.
• Please don't bring your own pets – just come and see ours.

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