Running of the bull(dogs) coming to Yaletown's Pet-A-Palooza

Up to 20,000 animal enthusiasts are expected to descend on Yaletown on August 23 for the West Coast’s largest outdoor pet festival: Pet-A-Palooza.

Hosted by the non-profit Just Love Animals Society, the one-day extravaganza features 85 pet exhibitors, demonstrations, pet health seminars, fly ball shows, agility showcases and photo lounges.

The 2015 event will be the biggest one to date, with part of Mainland Street being shut down to accommodate the hordes of dogs with their hoomans.

Hands down the highlight of the free event will be the Running of the Bulls, a hilarious 20-foot race for English and French bulldogs. The first to cross the finish line wins a year’s supply of excellent treats.

There’s also huge giveaways, the biggest being a year of free boarding at the Jet Pet Resort near YVR, valued at $20,000.

Vancity Buzz pet columnist Darcy Wintonyk is hosting the doggy races, so bring your pooch and say hello!

Yaletown Pet-A-Palooza 2015

When: Sunday, August 23

Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: 1100 Mainland Street, Yaletown

Cost: Admission is free and all proceeds benefit low-cost spay and neuter clinics.

For more information, visit Pet-A-Palooza’s Facebook page.

(Courtesy Pet-A-Palooza West)