Celebrate National Pet Month on Long Island
Why: Features live entertainment, obedience and agility demonstrations, author readings and book signings, pet products, free nail trims, learn about pet care, volunteerism, grooming, pet behavior and more.
When: Sat. 5/31 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale
How much: $12
Credit: OlyDog! Studios / Brian Pettepiece
May is National Pet Month. Here are ways to spend quality time with your pet and to support animals in need.
Dog-friendly parks and beaches
Finally, the weather is perfect for humans and canines to romp together in the great outdoors. Fortunately, LI is home to a number of dog-friendly parks and beaches where Fido can romp off-leash with his four-legged brethren. Click here for a complete list.
New York Pet Expo
Pets are welcome at this all-day event that includes a pet talent contest, demonstrations of agility and obedience, author readings and signings, products, micro-chipping (for an additional fee), rescue groups with adoptable animals, and more (including pet-owner musical chairs!). Info: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May 31, Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale, $12; newyorkpetexpo.com.
Howlabaloo basset hound fundraiser
It should be a howl. Ahem. The Tristate basset hound Rescue Group is putting the spotlight on the low-riding canines via a day filled with games, food, a costume parade and bassets looking for permanent and foster homes. Info: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. May 17, Wantagh Park Pavilion, Wantagh; $10 suggested donation includes lunch; preregistration recommended, at tristatebassets.org/info/events.
Dog Day Agility Expo and Pet Fair
Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany their humans at an event filled with super dogs demonstrating feats of agility. Info: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 17 (rain date is May 18) at St. Joseph's College, 155 W. Roe Blvd., North Patchogue; 631-265-0155.
ARF Thrift Shop Designer Showhouse
Help raise funds for the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, a no-kill shelter in Wainscott, by attending its fourth annual designer showhouse. Interior decorators make over ARF's store, 17 Montauk Hwy in Sagaponack, and the furnishings will be for sale. Info: 5-8 p.m. May 24 ($250 for 5-6 p.m. preview, $150 6-8 cocktail reception); 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 25 and 26 ($10 suggested donation, children free). Tickets: Email tdix@arfhamptons.org or call 631-537-0400 Ext. 219.
Memorial Day Vines & Canines Educational Vineyard Walk
Stroll through Martha Clara Vineyards with your dog while you learn about wine production. Info: 10 a.m. May 26, 6025 Sound Ave., Riverhead; free; marthaclaravineyards.com.
Pet Adoption Fair
LI-based groups will have animals available for adoption on hand. Info: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. May 17, Sachem Public Library garden, 150 Holbrook Rd., Holbrook; free; sachemlibrary.org.
