Florida Pet Friendly

Clearwater Coolest Pet Photo Contest

2011-03-12T11:48:00.002-05:00

The Coolest Pet Photo Contest is the newest feature of the city s annual Pet Festival that will be Saturday, March 26 in the Cleveland Street District, downtown Clearwater. Pet owners who submit the best photographs of their pets by March 21 at midnight could be among three lucky winners who will receive photo sessions and photo prints from the contest s sponsor, Rebecca Brittain Photography.

First Place: A Best Buddies Studio Session, one 8 x 10 print and a digital image ($199 value); Second Place: A Mini Session and one 5 x 7 print ($99 value); Third Place: A $25 gift certificate to use toward any photo session.

Two pets per household may be entered in the contest. Photographs should be e-mailed to petphotoentry@gmail.com in jpeg format, no larger than 700 pixels on the longest side. Include the pet s name, owner s name, phone number and e-mail address, as well as why the entrant should be named Clearwater s Coolest Pet. For more information about the contest, visit www.myclearwater.com/downtown.

Largo PawFest April 2nd 2011

2010-12-12T12:00:00.001-05:00

The first Saturday in April has gone to the dogs. Kiwanis Club of Largo/Mid-Pinellas co-sponsor's its 5th Annual Pawfest!

Bring your favorite pooch to participate in games, activities, lessons, and demonstrations. Spoil him or her with the bounty of products offered by the many vendors specializing in pet related products. By the end of the day, you'll not just have had a great day with your entire family, but you'll have helped raise funds that will be put to good use in your own community.

Event Date:
April 2nd, 2011 at 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM
This is a family friendly event.

Event Location:
Largo Central Park
101 Central Park Drive
Largo , FL 33771

Take Your Dog To Work Day

2010-06-25T08:01:00.003-04:00

Take Your Dog To Work Day returns to pet-friendly businesses on June 25, 2010. Started by Pet Sitters International in 1999 to highlight the wonderful companionship dogs offer and to encourage adoption. This year's event continues the message to Go Furry at businesses large and small all around the world.

Pet Sitters International sees the event as an excellent way to increase adoptions of dogs by showing the dog-less just how amazing their co-workers dogs are and how they brighten their lives.

http://www.takeyourdog.com

Clearwater Pet Festival March 27

2010-03-04T11:20:00.005-05:00

AAA Pet Friendly Travel Guide Available

2010-03-03T09:36:00.006-05:00

The new edition of "Traveling with Your Pet," will be available at AAA offices, retail locations and bookstores in May. The AAA PetBook®, is a comprehensive source for assisting animals and their humans in preparing for a fun and hassle-free trip. Updated annually, the guide features more than 13,000 pet-friendly AAA Approved hotels and campgrounds, and attractions that your companions will love in the U.S. and Canada. www.AAA.com

Pet Rescue Benefit In Gulfport Today

2010-02-27T09:32:00.006-05:00

The 6th annual Get Rescued in Gulfport fundraiser is today, rain or shine on Beach Blvd in Gulfport. Animals will be available, hoping to find “forever homes”. Over 50 non profit groups will on hand to raise awareness and funds.

Bring your own four-legged friend along for agility contests, a pets-and-their-people dance-off, training demos, a chance to meet Mrs. Bundle Mystery Series author Allison Cesario Paton, and a fiesta at the Chihuahua pavilion, where you’ll find the Mexican hat dance and a look-a-like contest. Everyone’s encouraged to bring a donation of pet supplies, especially dog and cat food. This year’s after party is at the Gulport Casino, and offers hors d’oeuvres, music, dancing and a silent auction to benefit local animal rescue organizations (7-11 p.m., 5500 Shore Blvd. S., $20). Visit getrescuedingulfport.com for more info.

Westminster Debuts 3 New Dog Breeds

2010-02-12T16:15:00.010-05:00

Three new breeds will make their debut at the Westminster Kennel Club's world-class dog show next week - An Irish red and white setter(left), a Pyrenean shepherd, and a Norwegian buhund.

Represented by 29 individual dogs in the show, the three breeds made it into the 134th annual event after being officially recognized last year by the American Kennel Club, the governing body of the purebed dog sport in the US. The show starts Monday. The Westminster is the nation's 2nd longest continually held sporting event, after the Kentucky Derby.

The Pyrenean shepherd and the Norwegian buhund will compete Monday as part of the herding group. The setters will compete the next day in the sporting group.

Florida Friend License Plate Program Benefits Animobile

2010-02-04T20:12:00.008-05:00

Pinellas County Animal Services received a $20,000 grant from the Florida Friend license plate program, which will be applied to the operation of the Animobile. You can help support the Florida Friend program by purchasing a Spay/ Neuter license plate. Purchases directly contribute to animal welfare in the state of Florida. Each year, license plate funds are distributed to local spay/ neuter programs targeting animals at the highest risk for reproduction. For more information, visit Florida Animal Friend.

Free Dog Training With Animal Services Adoption

2010-01-31T20:07:00.002-05:00

Get off to the right start with the pet you adopted from Animal Services by attending a Learn the Basics of Dog Training Seminar. Offered the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. Learn about housetraining, loose-leash walking and dealing with other challenging behaviors such as chewing and jumping. Seminar is conducted by a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. This free, fun and informative seminar is for anyone who has adopted a dog from Pinellas County Animal Services. Held at Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo.

St Lucie County To Get First "Pet Friendly" Emergency Shelter

2010-01-29T09:09:00.009-05:00

Ravenswood Community Center in Port St Lucie will become St. Lucie County’s first “pet friendly” emergency shelter, with room for at least 100 animals and their owners. It won't be ready in time for the 2010 Hurricane season though, completion is not scheduled until summer 2011.

Ravenswood has been closed due to damage from hurricanes in 2004 and 2004. A grant from the FEMA is being used in addition to other sources to rebuild it meet Category 5 hurricane standards. It will house the city's Emergency Operations Center and the Police Department in the new 35k square foot building. Indian River State College donated the land and will have classrooms in the building and there will be a gymnasium and other rooms for recreation. A tornado siren will also be installed to warn residents within a 2-mile radius of an impending tornado.

Gone To The Dogs - Puppy Bowl VI 2010

2010-01-26T12:28:00.003-05:00

If your favorite team is on the bench instead of in the playoffs this year, it’s time to forget that post season slump. Some very special rookies are ready to take the field with a winning combination of tackles, fumbles and even a few tumbles, for their shot at the end zone —or a tug toy—in Animal Planet’s PUPPY BOWL VI. This annual canine battle is back as a new pack of pups mix it up on the grand gridiron of Animal Planet Stadium.

Sunday, February 7th at 3 PM an all-star lineup of rambunctious, rescue pups competes in the ultimate showdown full of dogged defense, puppy penalties and Fido first downs. Plus, for the first time in Puppy Bowl history, all the action will be captured in panoramic view with aerial coverage provided by the Twizzler’s blimp and its rogue hamster crew. In another fun first, the sidelines will also be hopping with the addition of spirited bunny rabbit cheerleaders. Animal Planet has also booked a bevy of frolicking felines for an all-new edition of the Kitty Half-time Show.

Straight from shelters, this year’s starting lineup is filled with spunky spaniels, fierce French bulldogs and bustling beagles that are ready for action as they vie for the title of MVP (Most Valuable Puppy). Puppy Bowl VI cameras catch all of the thrilling action as the puppies pounce and play, mimicking the rough-and-tumble moves of professional ballers. Our veteran Puppy Bowl referee, Andrew Schechter, will be on hand to keep the players in line and to dole out any necessary "puppy penalties." With instant replays, the popular water bowl camera and the addition of the blimp, viewers won’t miss any of the action on the field.

Pet Friendly Dorm Coming To Stetson Universty

2010-01-24T11:08:00.001-05:00

Stetson University in Deland Fl, will open its first pet dormitory this fall. Students in one of the college dorms will be allowed to bring their family pet with them.

Administrators believe it will relieve student anxiety from leaving home for the first time. Bringing their pet can help with the transition and make them feel more comfortable, and studies show it leads to better grades.

Students are currently permitted to have fish. Under the new policy, qualifying students can have hamsters, gerbils guinea pigs, mice, rats, cats, dogs -- anything under 30 pounds. Exotic pets will not be permitted. A special council will help with any problems that may arise.

The 36 dedicated pet-friendly rooms are end units located in one dorm and a dog park will be next to the building. Rooms will available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

5th Annual PugFest January 31st In Ft Myers

2010-01-23T13:55:00.002-05:00

The 5th Annual PugFest is a dog-friendly fundraiser for Library System's annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival and will be held Sunday January 31, at the Bell Tower Shops on US 41 in Ft Myers.

This year's theme is Toga Party. Pugs and owners may team up for a water relay contest called My Cup Runneth Over. Teams with the best times win. Six Pugs will be appointed King, Queen, and to the Royal Court. A $10 donation is requested for entry to this contest and it is limited to pugs only. Other highlights include a costume contest open to all dogs and a pug fashion show. Vendors of pet products and services will be on hand and a Chinese Auction offers attendees the chance to win prizes.

Admission is free, but a $5 donation per family is suggested. Funds benefit the Southwest Florida Reading Festival, a free community event to showcase the library programs and resources, and to promote reading and literacy. Website

Choice Hotels Opens New Pet Friendly Hotel In Orlando

2010-01-23T13:38:00.001-05:00

Orlando Vista Inn at Lake Buena Vista, an Ascend Collection hotel

Ideally located at the gateway to Florida’s most popular attractions, this 246-room hotel offers an outdoor heated pool and whirlpool/hot tub, free continental breakfast, free wireless high-speed Internet access, an exercise room, business center and meeting facilities, lounge/bar, game room and gift shop. Guestrooms feature in-room safes, coffee makers and comfortable accommodations while select rooms also offer balconies, pillow top mattresses, in-bath whirlpools, robes and microwaves. This Ascend Collection member hotel is 100 percent smoke free, pet-friendly and supports green lodging practices. Website

18th Annual Mutt Strut At Honeymoon Island

2010-01-19T14:34:00.003-05:00

The 18th Annual Mutt Strut will be on Saturday March 20th, from 10 am - 3 pm at Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin.

You can walk as an individual or form a "Pack" and collect pledges as a group. Prizes are available for the top individuals and packs! The first 300 registered walkers with a pledge of $5 or more will get a Wag Bag. Those who have collected $20 in pledges get a Wag Bag, Bandana and an event T-shirt! For Walker and Pledge forms, visit http://www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org/events.htm

Ultimate Tailgate Pawty In Clearwater

2010-01-19T12:27:00.004-05:00

Start your the Superbowl festivities with your pet the day before the Big Game! We will have a park full of vendors, food, demonstrations and lots of other fun activities. There is even a dog park, a trail around the lake and a playground for the kids! Saturday, February 6th, 10 am - 4 pm at Crest Lake Park in Clearwater

Calling All Dogs For Woofstock 2010

2010-01-19T09:35:00.002-05:00

Enjoy a PAWS-itively perfect day as you and your special K-9 stroll through Largo Central Park (101 Central Park Drive, Largo 33771) for this year's Woofstock 2010. On Saturday, February 13th from 10am-2pm, enjoy contests, training sessions, pet-related vendors, demonstrations, music, a kid's play area and much more. And don't miss the Golden Dog Bone Hunt to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Largo's Recreation, Parks and Arts Department.

This event is free and open to all pet loving families and their canines. For more information, or to become a vendor, call (727)518-3021 or visit PlayLargo.com.

Belleair Causeway Dog Beach Back In Business

2010-01-08T19:58:00.001-05:00

The dog beach on Belleair Beach Causeway is back in business. The beach is located on the south side of the causeway and has been closed during construction of the new bridge. "Dog Beach" is one of just 3 beaches where pups can roam free. Work is still being completed, a ramp and steps is planned from the parking lot to the beach.

TradeWinds Resort Offers Free Nights For Dog Adoptions

2009-09-28T19:32:00.039-04:00

To celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month in October, the TradeWinds Resort in St Pete Beach is offering complimentary room night certificates to those who adopt a dog from SPCA Tampa Bay or Human Society of Tampa Bay. After the adoption is complete the family is invited for a night at the Tradewinds Resort to enjoy one of the Island Grand's pet friendly suites. A "Doggie Accessory Center" offers a complete selection of supplies like dishes, toys, and leashes for use during their stay. There is even a special room service menu with options such as "Fido Fajitas" for your four legged friend's dining enjoyment. Outdoors, the resort features a Pet Play Zone with drink fountains, a rinse and dry station with towels, fire hydrants and more. There is a dog walk that meanders along the property's beachfront dunes complete with hammocks for a an afternoon nap.

A Doggie Accessory Center stocked with dishes, leashes, toys and towels for use during the four-legged friend's stay, is accessible for guests using their room key. And for some extra-special service, Fido can order from the pet-only room service menu, including Mutt Meatloaf and Fido Fajitas.

TradeWinds complimentary fall room night certificates will be available at the SPCA Tampa Bay and Humane Society of Tampa Bay starting Oct.1, 2009. The certificates will be available to the first 400 dog adoptions on a first-come, first-served basis.

Located on Florida's Gulf Coast just minutes from America's #1 Beach in 2005 - Fort De Soto Beach (dog-friendly) - the TradeWinds Island Resorts offer access to two great properties in one, with limitless beachfront recreation, sumptuous dining, and golf privileges at some of the area's finest public and private clubs.

SPCA Tampa Bay http://www.spcafl.org/

Humane Society of Tampa Bay http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/

TradeWinds - (866) JUST LET GO or http://www.justletgo.com/

New Doggie Water Park Opens In St Petersburg

2009-09-26T20:01:00.001-04:00

The grand opening of the Safer Environment Doggie Water Park is today. The water park is located at the Love My Dog Resort and Playground at 6427 54th Ave N. in St Pete. One hour of play is $10, and part of the proceedss benefit the Pet Pal Animal Shelter.

Pars 4 Paws Golf Scramble

2009-09-12T10:06:00.002-04:00

On Saturday October 3rd, Island Dog Outfitters on Clearwater Beach will host the 1st annual Pars 4 Paws golf scramble. The event will be held at Lansbrook Golf Club in Palm Harbor and proceeds will benefit the Suncoast Animal League. Registration fee is $85 per golfer or $340 per team and sponsorship opportunities are available. Call 608-6836 to register. Registration Form Download

Indian Rocks Beach Adopts Doggy Dining Bill

2009-08-04T08:58:00.002-04:00

Last month, the Indian Rocks Beach City Commission voted to become more dog friendly, adopting a bill recently passed by state legislation that allows for dogs in dining establishments. The ordinance, will take effect on Oct. 1 and is strictly voluntary-the decision to allow dogs to dine will be left to the business owner. The new law applies only to dogs, and is restricted to outdoor areas such as decks or patios.

There are 13 doggy dining regulations, like requiring employees not to touch or pet the dogs while serving, not allowing dogs to come in contact with any dishes or utensils used for food service, and hand sanitizer is to be provided at all outdoor tables where dogs are allowed.

Other Florida municipalities that have approved doggy dining: Bradenton, Cocoa Beach, Crystal River, Dunedin, Ft Walton Beach, Jacksonville, Manatee County, Melbourne, Miami Beach, Neptune Beach, Ocala, Orlando, Osceola County, Panama City Beach, Sarasota, Siesta Key, St Augustine, St Petersburg, Tampa, Winter Park. For a complete list visit http://www.floridapetfriendly.com/

Pampered Pet Expo August 7-9

2009-07-30T09:50:00.002-04:00

Pampered Pet Expo - Orlando, FL
August 7-9, 2009
Half-price admission Friday evening!
Class & Presentation Schedule of Events

Education classes, from 15 minute presentations to half-day classes run all day on topics such as training, behavior, diet & treats, DOGA (yoga with your dog) CPR, Build a Profitable Pet Sitting Business, communicating with your pet. and more!

Shop for pet food, toys, treats, supplies, housing, clothes, costumes, furniture, health care, services from vendors from all over the country
Watch incredible pet-themed entertainment
Give an adoptable pet a new home in the Petfinder adoption area with Central Florida’s rescue groups
Location:Orange County Convention Center, West Concourse, International Drive, Orlando

Cruisin For Critter II Poker Run

2009-07-30T09:28:00.004-04:00

Cruisin For Critters II poker run for animals will be held October 3rd. Kickstands up at 9:30 am from Eve's Family Restaurant with last bike in at Quaker Steak & Lube by 1 pm. Stay for an afternoon of entertainment until 4 pm! Awesome prizes!

Download and complete both the Registration Form and Waiver to participate.

Start: Eve's Family Restaurant 3050 Oldsmar Rd, Tampa
Stops: Captain Jacks Sunset Grill, Tarpon Springs - Danny's Food and Spirits, Palm Harbor - Fletcher's Harley Davidson, Clearwater
Finish: Quaker Steak and Lube US 19, Clearwater

Bark At The Ball Park August 21st

2009-07-27T10:02:00.003-04:00

The Humane Society of Pinellas will host Bark at The Ball Park III on Friday, Aug. 21, at Bright House Field. The gates will open at 6 p.m. for a 7 p.m. game between the Clearwater Threshers and Dunedin Blue Jays. After the game, you and your pooch can run the bases.

Come early to enjoy the variety of vendors on hand and treat your dog to free samples and a massage. There will be a raffle for gift baskets, T-shirts for sale and pets available for adoption.

Gates open at 6 pm.
Tickets start at $4. Call 467-4457.
Brighthouse Field is located at 601 Old Coachman Road in Clearwater.

Protect Your Pet From The Heat

2009-06-11T12:13:00.003-04:00

The SPCA has some tips to help you protect your pet from the summer heat. Pets can suffer from overheating, dehydration and sunburn in the hot Florida summer.

• Make sure adequate water is available at all times for your pet, when you are out riding, walking or just lounging around, have a container ready.

• Do not leave your pet in the car without adequate ventilation. Car interiors can easily approach 110 degrees in the summer months. Signs of overheating include heavy panting, dark pink or even reddish gums, and your pet may feel quite hot to the touch. If this occurs, soak your pet with cool or cold water immediately and take him promptly to your nearest veterinarian. This is an emergency situation and requires immediate care.

• Paws can burn on that hot pavement, so make sure that your dog is not getting ‘paw burn’ from the sidewalk. Wherever you go, look for shade, and try to take your pets out early in the day or later in the day after the intense heat has subsided.

• For the longhairs, a summer cut may do them wonders. Not too short or they may get sunburn. And because cats typically never allow groomers other than themselves, brushing will help alleviate overheating.

• Be aware that there may be more pesticides and insecticides in the air, so avoid taking your pet to areas that may have been recently sprayed.

New Dog Park Opens In St Pete

2009-06-07T09:20:00.003-04:00

The Kenwood Dog Park opened on Saturday. Dogs were treated to fresh sod, treats, water and ballons. The 3 acre park was paid for by the city's recreation fund. The park is located at 20th St & 4th Ave. N in St Petersburg.

Prepare Your Pets For Hurricane Season

2009-06-01T18:49:00.002-04:00

Today is the first day of hurricane season, don't forget to plan for your pets. Once a storm is approaching it may be too late. Many hurricane shelters do not allow animals, and those that do may require pre-registration. Contact emergency management services in your county to find out what shelter options are available for your pets.

In addition, if you evacuate and need to stay in hotels, you will need to find one that will allow pets. Many hotels are now "pet friendly", and those that are not often make exceptions for disasters. There may be small fees, and size limitations, so research your options ahead of time.

Visit www.FloridaPetFriendly.com for pet friendly hotel and emergency shelter information.

Pinellas County Pet Friendly Beaches

2009-06-01T12:47:00.001-04:00

It's time to dig out the bathing suits and snorkels and head for the beach. Why not take your best friend with you? Pinellas County has pet friendly beaches where fido can enjoy the sunshine with you.

Ft Desoto Park, Tierra Verde- The only beach that does not require dogs to be on a leash (must be under voice command). There are fenced play areas, and bathing and watering stations.

Bicentennial Park, Madeira Beach - 6 ft leash is required. Bathing and watering stations are provided.

Honeymoon Island, Dunedin - 6 ft leash is required. Make sure you bring water, especially if your dog eats sand like mine does.

4th Annual Clearwater Pet Festival

2009-05-05T09:39:00.004-04:00

The city of Clearwater is hosting the 4th annual Clearwater Pet Festival on May 9th. The event will take place downtown on Cleveland Street from 11-4 and will include a parade, contests, entertainment, food, prizes, and vendors.

Now Is The Time To Prepare Your Pets For A Hurricane

2009-04-30T17:19:00.001-04:00

Clearwater’s Countryside Library will host Preparing Your Pets for a Hurricane on Tuesday, May 19, at 2 p.m. Learn how to prepare your pets for hurricane season. For more information, call (727) 562-4970 or visit www.myclearwater.com/cpl

Annual Mutt March Set for March 21st

2009-03-18T15:40:00.003-04:00

The 3rd Annual Mutt March will be held Saturday March 21st, from 10-3, at Highlander Park in Dunedin to help raise money for animals in need.

American Idol Season 5 finalist Melissa McGhee will perform, live auction of 2008 American League Champions Tampa Bay Rays tickets and memorabilia, noon - "Mutt Derby"- x-small, small, medium, large and x-large doggie derby, $15 microchip clinic, kids play area, dog vendors, arts and crafts vendors, animal rescue groups, silent auction and raffles, pledge dog walk and more; $25 minimum walk pledge receives a bandana and wag bag; $50 minimum walk pledge receives t-shirt, bandana and wag bag.

Dog Day At Largo Central Park

2009-02-02T12:40:00.002-05:00

You and your pooch can stroll through Largo Central Park at 101 Central Park Dr., Largo. Enjoy training sessions, contests, music, demonstrations and there will also be pet related vendors on hand. Don’t have a dog? Come watch the fun and see some of the cutest pups around!
This family friendly event is Saturday, February 7 from 10 -2, and admission is free.
For more information or to become a vendor contact Mandy Petersen at 727-518-3021.

Valentine's Pet Photos Saturday Feb 7th

2009-02-02T12:35:00.006-05:00

Animal House Pet Center, at 413 62nd Avenue N. in St. Pete will host a fundraising pet portrait event to benefit Coastal Poodle Rescue on Saturday, February 7 from 11 - 2. Appointments are recommended and may be made by calling (727) 692-8578. For $35 you will receive one 8 x 10 print of your choice along with an email link to a slideshow to share with friends and family. Each $35 session includes up to two pets with $5 for each additional pet. People can be in the picture, too! To view current poodles available for adoption or to make a donation, visit http://www.coastalpoodlerescue.org/.

Get Ready For Woofstock 2009

2009-02-01T10:02:00.002-05:00

Mark your calendars for City of Largo's Woofstock!

Not much peace and quiet, but lots of puppy love at the 5th Annual Woofstock! This 1960s theme dog event features music, contests, and more! Enjoy a PAWS-itively perfect day as you and your K-9 stroll in Largo Central Park and enjoy pet related vendors, training sessions, contests, music and demonstrations.

February 7, 2009

10am to 2pm

Admission: Free

PetSmart Peanut Butter Product Recall

2009-01-25T10:44:00.003-05:00

From PetSmart:
Update - January 23, 2009 Carolina Prime, one of our dog treat vendors, is conducting a voluntary recall of four of its peanut butter treat products after confirming that the product contains ingredients linked to the salmonella investigation announced by the FDA in mid-January. This recall affects all PetSmart stores in the U.S. and Canada. While these products are being recalled as a precautionary measure, we're immediately removing the product from our stores (note: this product is not sold online at petsmart.com). These products are in addition to the voluntary recall of seven Grreat Choice dog biscuit products announced on January 20 and one Salix dog treat product announced on January 22.

Full details and product info