A&M International Hosts Pet Appreciation Week Spectacular

Texas A&M International University will celebrate pet Appreciation Week with a Pet Appreciation Week Spectacular (PAWS) on Saturday, April 26 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon at the University's main campus, 5201 University Boulevard.

Pet lovers, pet owners and their pets are invited to attend the free event.

Pets must be caged or leashed and have proof of all current vaccinations, including rabies vaccination, to be admitted onto campus.

Scheduled PAWS activities include a Pet Parade, Breed Show, and exotic animal exhibit. Participation in these events is free.

Pet owners who wish to show off their pets may enter their animals in the Pet Parade. Owners will promenade their pet across the University greens before an audience of event goers as an emcee announces the pet's name, breed, and lovable qualities.

The Breed Show will feature a variety of animals including American Black and Tan Coon Hounds and a rare Bengal cat, a breed developed from a wild Asian leopard and domestic cat. The small cat has leopard markings and brilliant green eyes.

The exotic animal exhibit will include snakes and other reptiles.

Pet lovers who would like a photograph of their pet with the University's mascot, Dusty the Dustdevil, may visit the Dusty Photo Booth. Photos are $2 each with proceeds benefiting a scholarship fund.

An A&M International student group, the Progressive Alliance, will have an Adopt-a-Pet photo board for persons interested in adopting a homeless animal.

Local pet supply vendors will also have display booths.

Free sodas and fun giveaways will be offered.

PAWS is sponsored by the University's Administrative Advisory Council, an organization comprised of A&M International's administrative staff.

For additional information on the Pet Appreciation Week Spectacular at A&M International April 26, please contact the University's Office of Public Affairs at 326-2180.

University office hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu