Pets and owners invited to PetPalooza event

Somerton will throw a four-legged, furry fiesta on Feb. 22 with the first PetPalooza.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on State Street, sharing the space that day with the Farmers' Market Extravaganza.

PetPalooza will bring together pet-centric people and products in a bustling, outdoor carnival. Goods and service vendors will show their wares and provide free samples and giveaways.

“This is sure to be a lot of fun for pets and owners,” said Shaun Cassidy, Somerton's economic development and chamber coordinator.

Events will include a pet costume contest, pet trick contest and ugliest pet contest, with pet treats as prizes for winners.

Chihuahua owners are encouraged to enter their pets in the Chihuahua races, where the top hound will win free dog food for a year from race courtesy of sponsor Nutrena Brands. Detailed contest information is online at SomertonPetPalooza.com.

For convenience, Somerton residents can license their dogs at the event. Fee schedule and information is also at SomertonPetPalooza.com.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Humane Society of Yuma will have an on-site clinic for vaccination against rabies, distemper and other diseases.

The Tiny Hooves Mini Ranch will display miniature horses, the Camel Farm and Wild World Zoo will bring out camels and Jose Luis Torres will show his black Friesian show horse.

Attendees will also be treated to a variety of giveaways and samples. Lerma's Feed Western Wear & More will distribute free pet gifts and sample dog food treats. Veterinary Service Inc. will have gift giveaways and samples of dog food and dog treats. Nutrena and Purina Mills will also hand out dog food samples. PFX Pet Supply will give away shirts, caps and samples. Thompson Vet will be handing out free samples as well.

“We'll have water stations and rest stops for the animals. They can sniff, pant, look, have a treat, enjoy the excitement and maybe take home some gifts,” Cassidy said.

In addition, Cassidy said, the Somerton Farmers' Market Extravaganza will be in full swing with entertainment, and most downtown shops will be open.

“Lots and lots of food and fun,” he noted.

For the schedule and more information, visit SomertonPetPalooza.com.

For latest information, call the Somerton Fun Line: English 722-7337 or Spanish 722-7338.

For vendor information, contact Cassidy at shaunc@cityofsomerton.com or 502-9165.

Mara Knaub can be reached at mknaub@yumasun.com or 539-6856. Find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/YSMaraKnaub or on Twitter at @YSMaraKnaub.