Highlights of the World of Pets, Day One, Maryland

Highlights of the World of Pets, First Day Friday

Friday was the first day of the 17^th annual World of Pets at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, continuing on Saturday and Sunday.

Come on in, Pup - The Water's Fine! And Fun!

The highlight for the Friday crowd was Dock Diving.

Yes, dogs do run and jump off a dock into the water in January – indoors. Each attempt garnered cheers and applause, especially from the children in the bleachers. I didn’t see any dogs wearing swimming suits – perhaps I will Saturday. We sat in bleachers and watched the high-jump where a dog has a short running start and then attempts to snag a bumper in his mouth at the apex of his jump (the bumper releases easily from being tied to a pole high above the dog). And the most endearing yellow lab never had the courage to jump in! You could tell he really really wanted to, though – and then he did – but by running down the ramp into the water.

Pony rides were available for $5, we saw bunnies, the 4H-ers were there with their exhibits. And, food! Old Bay potato chips! Freshly squeezed lemonade.

And, bling for people and for dogs. Several dog bakeries were vying for the crowds with their healthy yummies. Dog clothes and collars galore. Dog artists. Dog toys, dog puzzles, dog books.

We missed the Muttville Comix (we were shopping) but we heard the cheers. I suspect the ooh's and ah's came when one of the trick dogs climbed a ladder or jumped through a hoop.

Great Danes and Chihuahuas and Everything in Between

Who Wouldn't Love this Face?

We (literally) ran into the turtle and tortoise guy but forgot to ask him the difference. We'll have to visit his area Saturday (along with the snakes, always a big draw with the kids - not so much with the moms).

Saturday's Seminars Previewed

The big draw on Saturday is predicted to be the noon Pet and Owner Talent and Beauty Contest with huge prizes. Categories include Talent, Best Sports Fan, Cutest Pet, Most Original and Best in Show. Who's going to win - cats or dogs? 

At 5 pm is the mini-horse event. Help groom, feed and decorate a mini-horse. At 2 pm is a grooming seminar - for cats!

Learn all about collars, harnesses and leashes at 3 and turtles at 4.

I can’t wait until 10 am Saturday (and Sunday, too!) Meet me at the fair!

And, on Sunday, a presentation by a veterinarian on Pot for Pets. Yes, that's right. Cannabis. . . . come early for that one, to get a seat.