Thanks to a new, free shuttle, it’s dog-gone simple for West Shore animal lovers to take in one of the region’s favourite pet-friendly events Aug. 12 and 13.
“Pet-A-Palooza is the West Coast’s largest outdoor pet festival – a free, best-of-the-best in the industry for pet lovers,” says organizer Lonnie Powell.
More than 18,000 people are expected at the St. Ann’s Academy grounds in downtown Victoria between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. both days, many with their dogs and a few with other pets. The event supports Powell’s Just Love Animals Society.
Whether hopping the free shuttle – with pick-up at the Westshore Town Centre Bosley’s – or driving, here’s the weekend’s must-see events:
Running of the Bulls, Sunday, Aug. 13 … Bulldogs, that is! Register onsite – before 12:30 p.m. for English bulldogs, and before 2 p.m. for French bulldogs – for this hilarious 30-foot race, and the chance for more than $500 in prizes!
Wiener (dog) races, Saturday, Aug. 12. Prepare your low-rider for this epic race of the wieners. Register onsite before 11:30 a.m.
Amazing feats of strength. Dock diving pools welcome participating pooches to make a splash both days, with the finals at 2 p.m. Sunday. Register in advance through West Central Waterdogs.
Puppy stampede, Saturday, Aug. 12. Register onsite before 1:30 p.m. for the most adorable event of summer! The winning pup scores more than $500 in prizes!
Sensational swag! Yes, in addition to sampling treats and trying toys, you’ll both find loads of free swag to check out at home – or the dog park – later.
Luxe off-leash park. Visit the Adventure Dog Crew’s off-leash adventure park in a fully fenced shady area of the academy grounds.
Get rescued. Meet the folks hard at work in the region with this Pet-A-Palooza tradition – free booths for local animal rescue organizations.
Your PAWS-port to a chance to win! Pet-A-Palooza presenting sponsor Paws on Cook offers a chance to win a super $1,500 prize: Free food, treats and pet supplies for a year! Pick up your PAWS-port from Paws on Cook (visit Aug. 1 for extra swag!) or the eight Grandpaw’s Treats stations at Pet-A-Palooza. Visit each station to collect the stamps and your dog collects the treats! Bring your fully stamped PAWS-port to the Grandpaws Treats/Paws on Cook booth and be entered to win!
Tasty treats for you, too. Stroll to food truck alley to savour food from Discovery Coffee, Fresh Coast Health Bar, Greek on the Street, Hungry Rooster, Taco Revolution and White Spot
Get the VIP experience with Sexy Beast, the most anticipated dating app for people with pets. Be photographed on the red carpet, get hooked up with Sexy Beast swag and more!
