Pet Expo exceeds expectations

Times Reporter

 

The first annual Strathmore Pet Expo, held on April 30, was a huge success, exceeding even the organizers expectations.  Melissa Crispin-Piche of Tail Waggers Dog Walking Service, and Melissa David, Quality Dog Grooming, wanted to show residents everything you need for your pet can be found in town. The women paired up to bring the expo to town.

“We’re so thankful for all the support,” said David.

“It’s fantastic. The support from the community is just overwhelming,” said Crispin-Piche.

There were 760 people who attended the Pet Expo, and the women said the amount of food raised for the Wheatland Food was amazing. 

“The foodbank has been through the roof, we’ve already emptied one bin and we’re starting again,” said David, on the day of the expo. 

The expo raised $210 for the food bank, in addition to a large amount of non-perishable items. Every table donated a product or service which was raffled off, with all of the money to be split between the non-profit organizations that were in attendance. Between the door prizes and the silent auction, over $300 was raised for charity. 

Both women agreed they can’t even begin to thank residents enough for all of the support they have given to help make the first annual Pet Expo the success that it was. Of course, with any new event, there are the occasional little hiccups. Even though there were signs asking people not to bring their pets with them to the expo, quite a few still did. 

“Next year we’re going to have tags for the vendors. A bright coloured tag or something that will say I’m a vendor dog, I’m okay,” said Crispin-Piche.

Also in attendance was Miss Teen Wheatland County-World, Shelbi-Rae Ramsay. David said she was a great ambassador and they were fortunate to have her there.

Due to its success, they have already booked space for the second annual expo, which will take place April 21, 2012.