PRESS RELEASE Pet Expo 2011
Irish Pet Lovers To Take To The RDS
- New research indicates Irish people are still spending on their pets -
Is Ireland a nation of animal lovers? According to a new report[1] Irish people continue to spend on pets and pet products despite having less disposable income. There are 1.3 million documented pets in Ireland, comprising 424,000 dogs and 315,000 cats as well as a few other feathered friends. Pet Expo, which takes place at the RDS on the weekend of Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October, will see thousands of Irish families spend some fun time learning about all kinds of domestic pets with some opting to take a furry friend home.
The research also suggests that almost 50% of Irish pet owners consider that their pet shares their human emotions when they are upset, or unwell. It also seems pets are gradually becoming the companion of choice, with around 40% of owners stating that they sense their pet loves them and a massive 25% of owners claiming that they would rather spend quality time with their pet than their partner!
Considering a dog for the family? This year’s show will see the largest ever Irish Breeders’ Village showcasing over 50 dog breeds with the aim of educating Irish people about responsible dog ownership. Dog experts and breeders will be on hand to answer questions and do a little match making. It’s not all about pedigree, there will be hundreds of rescue dogs eagerly looking for adoption homes with experts on hand to ensure you make the right choice of friend.
Some who have found themselves in a canine canumdrum may need help? The pet advice centre; ‘ask the vet’ clinic, or breed village will all be on hand to help you out. According to Pet Behaviour Counsellor, Jim Stephens, “My job is to fix pet problems when things go wrong, however, most problematic pet situations can be avoided by the owners doing their research before taking on a pet. Pet Expo is the perfect environment to get to grips with the responsibility of having a pet.”
Whether you plan on getting a pet, or just want to open your child’s mind to a world of wonderful animals, Pet Expo will allow your children to enjoy meeting, touching and learning about animals. Interactive activity ensures new life experiences for you kids including pony rides, touching a snake, pets corner - they’ll be amused for hours! Kids can get colourful at the Wildlife café where they can colour to their hearts content, learn in a tropical environment with talking parrots, monkeys and Ireland’s very own Doctor Doolittle, zoologist David Gonzalez.
Pet Expo will roll out the red carpet to play host to a special Hollywood guest - Puss in Boots – from the DreamWorks movie which premiers in Dublin in November. Pet Expo, which is a weather free zone (being indoors), takes place at the RDS on Saturday and Sunday, 8 and 9 October, family tickets are €30, Adults €10, children €6 and under 3s are free www.petexpo.ie
Ends -
For further information contact:
Tracy Kelly, touchstone communications
T 01 293 7956 m 087 202 5160 e
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[1] Euromonitor report Pet Care in Ireland – 1st September 2011
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Show Features:
Dog Agility Displays
Puppies on Parade
Ask the Vet Clinic
Pet Behavioral Advice Centre
New Soft Furry Friends area
Dog Breed Village
Newbridge House & Farm
Dr. Dolittle & Friends from Kinsealy Pets
Pet Adoption Centre
Dog Grooming Demonstrations
Dogs for the Disabled
Reptile Village
Entertainment
Kids softplay area









