Are you still “dogless” in the desert? Thinking a cat might be the “purrfect” pet for you? There are 500 adoptable pets heading for Rancho Mirage. They will be at Loving All Animals’ 4th annual Super Pet Adoption Fair the weekend of November 17 and 18. The fair will have a Wizard of Oz theme, and proclaims the wish of all homeless animals everywhere, “There’s No Place Like a Home!”
The Whitewater Park (located just behind The River Walk) transforms that weekend into the magical kingdom of Oz where dreams come true and loving homes are found. Upon arrival you will be greeted by Glenda the good witch who will hand you a keepsake program listing the day’s activities. The Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion will meet fair goers. Young Dorothys, complete with ruby slippers and baskets, will pose for photo ops. A yellow brick road leads to a special castle honoring the late Jackie Lee Houston. Jackie Lee was an ardent cat lover and her charitable giving included helping our furry friends. Pet adoption kennels are interspersed with vendors selling everything from pet supplies to jewelry. Near the Flying Monkey area you can grab a delicious lunch at the food vendors and imbibe at the beer & wine garden.
Each area of the park is named after the classic “tail of Oz”. Munchkinland features activities for children including face painting, bubble gum blowing contest, and bottle toss. The Wizard of Oz fun also includes a petting zoo in a recreated Kansas barnyard. Other designated areas are Emerald City, the Enchanted Forest, and the Wicked Witch of the West. Pet adoption kennels and interspersed with vendors selling everything from pet supplies to jewelry.
Loving All Animals’ president Lindi Biggi said, “We are focusing on creating a fair so that there’s something for everyone, even those people who don’t plan on adopting. The people who know they want a new furry baby are going to come. I want this fair to be a community event and to also attract people who may not want a pet”. Lots of fun as well as wagging tails await you at this festival like event.
An incredible line up of entertainment is planned for music lovers. Local musicians performing include Johnny Mesa, Mark Guerrero, Todd Ashley & Michael Dooley, Gilbert Hanson Band, Joe Baldino, John Bolivar, the John Stanley King Band, and the Gilbert Hansen Band. For something different, Denise Motto and Rio Colors will perform Brazilian Samba dancing. Steve DiTullio will perform a Frank Sinatra impersonation.
Once you adopt that wonderful new pet, Dr. Lillian Roberts of Country Club Animal Clinic will provide a complimentary vet check. Other animal professionals such as dog trainers and groomers will provide their expertise. A highlight will be a dog grooming contest. As a special bonus, you will receive a lovely photograph with you and your new pet at no charge.
Over 30 participating animal welfare organizations include Animal Samaritans, Yucaipa Animal Placement (YAPS), Living Free, The Humane Society of the Desert, Riverside County Department of Animal Services, San Bernardino County Animal Services, Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Indio Animal Care Center, and Save A Pet. Last year the fair adopted approximately 70% of the animals, and we hope to adopt more this year.
This year Loving All Animals’ doggie decorated limousine will transport visitors back and forth between the adoption fair and the Desert Woman’s Show which takes place that same weekend at the Westin Mission Hills Resort. Check in at Loving All Animals booth at the Woman’s show for the schedule.
Mega adoption fairs, inspired by Best Friends’ in Utah, are springing up across the country creating increased awareness for the cause of rescue animals. Loving All Animals has created an annual tradition that proves to be one of the Coachella Valley’s most anticipated events.
COST: Free to attend!
WHEN: Saturday & Sunday, November 17 and 18, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
WHERE: Whitewater Park, 71560 San Jacinto Way, Rancho Mirage (behind the River shopping center)
For more information about the fair, call Loving All Animals at (760) 776-9397 or check the website at www.lovingallanimals.org. Put on your best “Kansas garb”, join the festivities, and meet some special animals!
jmcafee7@verizon.net
