Margarita Wars is coming – Get your tickets here!

Pet-A-Palooza 2013: Pics from the pet party

By Chip Weiner on Mon, May 20, 2013 at 11:47 am

In this composited photo Ice dives off of the dog dock in a jumping competition. Ice is owned by Penny Moore and was coached by Gayle Deshong in this picture.

BayLee, a Pomchi (Pomeranian-Chihuahua hybrid), poses while panting from the heat. Organizers provided several small dipping pools to cool off.

Bodacious 2 year Old English Bulldog in one of the many cooling off pools

Bodacious, a 2-year-old English Bulldog, in one of the many cooling-off pools

St Francis Societys Vice President Jim Martinelli poses with 8 week old Ray who was up foe adoption

The majority of pets in attendance were dogs. However, the St Francis Society also had a cat tent helping new owners connect to kittens like Ray. The society's vice president, Jim Martinelli, said Ray was one of three brothers, including Billy and Cyrus, available for adoption (get it? Billy Ray Cyrus).

There were other fun things to do as well. Four-year-old Colt Fulford got to fly through the air on a bungee

Junioe Pena provided face paint for those that wanted it even himself

Junior Pena provided face paint for everyone who wanted it, including himself when no one else was in line.

Cute and cuddly were everywhere Saturday at Pet-A-Palooza, held at Raymond James Stadium. Pet challenges included Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel and a dog diving dock. More than 30 animal rescue organizations were also in attendance. Temperatures crept toward 90 degrees, leaving many of the four-legged attendees panting as their owners sought shade.

Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel, who has appeared in TV commercials and movies, performed in a large pool surrounded by enthusiastic but very warm onlookers.

Twig, a skateboarding Sheltie, pays attention to owner and trainer Lucy after skating down a short flight of stairs. The pooch's mission is to inspire kids to train and love animals.

ABC Action News sponsored a social media contest through which the public could go online and vote for their favorite pet-related organization. The station gave away a total of $5,000. First place went to Florida English Bulldog Rescue and second place to the St. Francis Society Animal Rescue.

Tags:

WE LOVE OUR READERS!

Since 1988, CL Tampa Bay has served as the free, independent voice of Tampa Bay, and we want to keep it that way.

Becoming a CL Tampa Bay Supporter for as little as $5 a month allows us to continue offering readers access to our coverage of local news, food, nightlife, events, and culture with no paywalls.

Join today because you love us, too.

Scroll to read more Local Arts articles