9 Rescue Groups to Exhibit @ Dulles Expo Ctr, Chantilly, March 15-17

People derive benefits from pets. According to mentalfloss.com, “having a furry friend can reduce depression, promote better sleep, and encourage more exercise. Research also indicates that caring for a dog or other pet might actually extend your lifespan.” Events like a pet expo, where many animal rescue and adoption organizations participate under one roof, make it easier for humans to return the favor.

Tenth graders Sky and Yvonne Zhu have been promoting proper care of creatures such as hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats, guinea pigs and rabbits, raising public awareness about responsible small animal husbandry since 2021. The 16-year-olds have established an Etsy shop, donating to small animal rescues 100% of their profits selling the small animal products they craft. They will share how these little creatures can provide extraordinary companionship in their presentation “Why Small Animals Make Good Pets,” March 15-17 at the Dulles Expo Center, Chantilly, Va.

At Super Pet Expo visitors may also meet their forever pet at: Akita Rescue Mid Atlantic Coast, Inc; Furever Haven Animal Rescue; K-9 Caring Angels; Katies Kats Island Rescue; Margaret's Saving Grace Bully Rescue; Nalani Horse Rescue; Only Maine Coons Rescue; Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue and Virginia German Shepherd Rescue.

Visitors can also learn about best practices for hotel and RV travel with pets; how to read a canine’s body language to alleviate tension; dog agility demos & free classes; a high-fashion dog show; dogs performing Frisbee skills and stunts and a pit with 5,000 balls to play in. There will be races for small dogs and lure coursing where dogs play capture the flag. Hollywood’s trainer of pet stars will share tips and audition and the Paw Prints booth will capture a dog’s pawprint—free with the cost of admission. The popular Repticon exhibit will have hundreds of snakes, lizards and more.