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The Ultimate Guide to the 2023 Columbus Pet Expo

What is the Columbus Pet Expo?

The Columbus Pet Expo is a three-day event celebrating all things furry, fluffy, and feathery. This year’s event will be held at the Ohio Expo Center from March 10th thru the 12th. The expo is designed to bring together pet lovers, pet vendors, and pet experts from all over Columbus and beyond. Whether you’re a pet parent, a pet enthusiast, or a pet sitter in Columbus, the 2023 Columbus Pet Expo has something for everyone!

What’s happening at the 2023 Columbus Pet Expo?

The Columbus Pet Expo will be jam-packed with exciting activities, events, and exhibits. It will feature a variety of pet vendors selling everything from food to toys to clothing, as well as exhibits showcasing the talents of furry friends and pet experts from around the area. Additionally, the event will have adoptable pets from local shelters and rescues for those interested in adding a new furry friend to their family.

Columbus Pet Expo schedule for 2023
Get ready for the Columbus Pet Expo 2023 with a schedule packed with activities, contests, and entertainment!

Courses & Contests

– K9 Class Package Hosted by Sara Carson

Don’t miss the Tricky K9s workshop at this year’s Columbus Pet Expo, hosted by celebrity dog trainer Sara Carson. In this one-hour workshop, you and your furry friend can learn several novice and advanced level tricks, including handstand, backwards circles, and leg weaves. The workshop package includes a personally autographed copy of Sara Carson’s book, Super Dog Tricks. It also includes one adult 3-day pass to the All American Pet Expo, special parking, and a t-shirt. The package costs $99 while spots last and is non-refundable. Only 10 spots are available each day.

– Dress Up Your Pet Contest

The 2023 Columbus Pet Expo will be hosting its 26th Annual “Dress Up Your Pet Contest” each day of the event. It’s open to all types of pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, reptiles, and llamas. Participants can enter online or 30 minutes prior to the contest. Winners will be determined by the applause of the audience, measured by a professional sound monitoring device. The prizes will be in the form of gift certificates, with 3rd place receiving $25 and a ribbon, 2nd place receiving $50 and a ribbon, and 1st place receiving $100 and a trophy. The contest will be held at specific times each day in the main arena. Participants are encouraged to invite friends and relatives for support, dress up with their pets, pre-register, and be a good sport regardless of the outcome.

– Wiener Dog Races

The Columbus Pet Expo is set to host two races that will surely get tails wagging- Racing with the Wieners and Lap Dog Races. Exciting preliminary heats will be held daily, and the victorious pups will compete in the finals at the main arena. A hotdog costume will be provided for the Dachshunds to wear in the Racing with the Wieners. Lap Dogs will race in their natural costumes. Only pups that are at least 6″ tall but no taller than 14″, weighing between 4lbs and 14lbs, can join the Lap Dog Races. All breeds that meet these qualifications are welcome. The first dog to cross the finish line will be crowned the winner. In case the winner can’t make it to the daily finals, the runner-up will take their place. Races are free to join, but pet owners can only enter one dog per race. Click here to sign up online!

– 1 Year of FREE Pet Food

The Columbus Pet Expo is holding a raffle for a chance to win free pet food of your choice for an entire year! Click here to enter online. The contest ends on March 12th, 2023 at 3:59 pm. The lucky winner will be announced at 4 pm in the Main Arena at The Ohio Expo Center & State Fair, and you don’t need to be present to claim your prize. Remember, there is no purchase necessary to enter this fantastic contest. Just imagine the convenience and savings of not having to worry about purchasing pet food for an entire year. Don’t miss your chance to win!

Entertainment

– All About Cats Expo

The All About Cats Expo will take place over three days from March 10th to March 12th, 2023. It will be held at the Ohio Building on the Ohio Expo Center grounds. This TICA officially judged event will feature 7 judging rings with seating for the public in front of each ring, with over 200 cats competing for ribbons. With Dr. Elsey as host, this exhibit will feature up to 60 breeds, including house-cats, and vendors with numerous products for cats. Attendees can also find cat rescue groups with adoptable cats.

– Dock Diving Dogs

Get ready to see some amazing jumps at the Columbus Pet Expo’s Dock Diving for Dogs attraction! This fast-growing sport is open to all breeds and sizes, and titles earned are eligible for the AKC Title Recognition Program. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to try something new with your furry friend, the Dock Diving competition is the perfect opportunity to compete for your titles or try out the sport with the help of experienced trainers. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement of this thrilling event! Click here to learn more and/or register!

– Pet Actor Auditions

Are you looking for your pet to be the next big animal star? Look no further than the pet auditions attraction at this year’s Columbus Pet Expo! Hosted by Pawsitively Famous, a company that provides exceptional animal talent for various projects. They’ll give you the opportunity to showcase your pet’s unique talents and possibly even land them a job in the entertainment industry. With a wide network of trainers and a database of over 3,000 animals, Pawsitively Famous has the resources to find the perfect animal for any project. Plus, their private Facebook community of over 2,700 members and large social media presence of 15,000+ followers is a valuable asset for casting. Don’t miss this chance to show off your furry friend’s skills and potentially launch their career in the spotlight!

– Kids World

Experience endless entertainment for your kids at Kid’s World in the Columbus Pet Expo! Cool Cat Sites Entertainment brings in Bouncers, Slides, and more. Texas Roadhouse sponsors the area and offers FREE KIDS MEALS with an $8 ALL PLAY WRISTBAND purchase, along with FREE adult apps. There are educational talks, such as Reptile Adventures and Pork Chop Revue and friends, and gem search. Kids can interact with friendly animals, including llamas, rabbits, horses, and goats, and enjoy eight brand new bouncers. Face painting and a craft area are also available. Let your kids’ creativity soar and get your tickets now!

Attending the 2023 Columbus Pet Expo

Attending the Columbus Pet Expo is an excellent opportunity to connect with other pet lovers, learn about the latest pet products and services, and gain valuable insights into pet care. You’ll leave the event feeling more confident in your ability to provide your fur babies with the care and attention they need.

As a pet parent, you already know how important it is to provide your fur kids with the best possible care. At Hands N Paws, we understand this too, which is why we offer professional dog walking and pet sitting services in Columbus, Ohio. Our team will likely be in attendance, browsing the different attractions and loving on the pets. Please say hi if you see us!

Give yourself the pet parent peace of mind you finally DESERVE!

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By signing this agreement, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to the policies below. Your signature also allows us to add your email to our mailing list (you can change your preferences anytime).

Key Terms
– Client = You
– Company = Hands N Paws
– Team Member(s) = Our pet care professionals

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Emergency Care Policy
You’re responsible for providing emergency instructions and medical details for your pet. Otherwise, we’ll contact your vet or an emergency clinic in case of an emergency. Team Members may make urgent care decisions (excluding euthanasia) if immediate action is needed. You’re responsible for any veterinary costs, and Hands N Paws isn’t liable for circumstances beyond our control.

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Home Access Policy
A lockbox with a spare key is required to ensure we can access your home. Garage or keypad codes are okay but don’t replace the need for a lockbox. Provide clear access instructions in your account notes. If entry is complicated, email us a video walkthrough to avoid delays. Our priority is your pets, not troubleshooting access!

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Cancellation Policy
We get it—plans change! Here’s our policy:
– 48+ hours notice: 100% refund as Account Credit.
– 24-48 hours notice: 50% refund as Account Credit.
– Less than 24 hours: No refund.
Refunds are issued as Account Credits and auto-apply to your next invoice.

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Safe & Sanitary Environment
You understand and agree that the environment in which we provide services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If we determine that your home is unsanitary or unsafe, we’ll let you know and take appropriate action, which may include stopping services.

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Service Termination Policy
In rare cases, if we believe there’s a serious danger to the health or safety of our Team Members or your pets, we may terminate services during a scheduled period. If this happens, you agree to cover the cost of boarding your pet or arranging alternative care until you return. We’ll do our best to notify you and/or your emergency contacts in these situations.

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Third-Party Access Policy
You’re responsible for letting us know if anyone else will have access to your home during the scheduled services. Hands N Paws is not liable for any loss, expense, or damage caused by third parties entering your home during this time.

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Vaccination, Licensing & ID Policy
Before services begin, all pets must:
– Be up-to-date on vaccinations and local licensing.
– Wear an ID tag with your contact info or be microchipped for identification.

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Pet Safety Policy
For everyone’s safety, dogs must remain leashed during walks. Off-leash walks are strictly prohibited.

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Accurate Pet Information Policy
Keep your pet’s info in your account accurate and up-to-date. Every three months, you’ll be prompted to review and confirm your pet’s details before being able to request services. Hands N Paws isn’t responsible for issues caused by outdated or incorrect information.

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Provide Visuals Policy
For complex routines or home entry instructions, please record a video and email it to us. A visual guide helps us better understand your needs and ensures smooth service delivery.

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Flexible Arrival Times
Services are scheduled within a two-hour arrival window to accommodate travel and other clients. While we’ll do our best to meet your preferred times, exact arrival times can’t be guaranteed.

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Trial Visits
For extended pet care (e.g., vacation services), we require a Trial Visit while you’re still in town. This helps ensure your pet is comfortable with our team before committing to long-term care.

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Service Request Approval & Availability
We do our best to accommodate all requests, but approval depends on Team Member availability. After submitting a request, you’ll receive an email confirmation or declination within 48 hours. If declined, we’ll work with you to explore alternatives.

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Communication Policy
Team Members will update you on your pet’s care through post-service journal entries in your account. If they have urgent questions during a service, they’ll call you using the number on file. If you receive a Team Member’s personal number, please don’t use it freely. Keep all communication in your account by responding to journals, updating service notes, or, if needed, contact our main office.

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Team Appreciation
Our Team Members work hard to care for your pets, and a little appreciation goes a long way! Feel free to leave kind journal comments, rate services, or tip for exceptional care. It means the world to us!

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Meet N Greets
A Meet N Greet is required before starting services to ensure we understand your pet’s needs and provide the best care.
– Virtual Meet N Greets: Free.
– In-Person Meet N Greets: $50.
New Clients can schedule at *www.myhandsnpaws.com*; Existing Clients can book through their account.

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Pricing & Surcharges
Visit *www.myhandsnpaws.com* for the most up-to-date pricing. Additional fees may apply in certain situations:
– Last-Minute Services: $15 for requests made within 24 hours.
– Holiday Services: $20 per service on major holidays.
– Additional Pets: $7 per pet beyond the first two.
– Service Adjustments: Fees may apply if additional time or tasks are required.

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Payment & Billing
We accept all major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover). A valid card must be stored securely in your account.
– Ongoing Services: Auto-charged every Friday for the previous week’s services.
– One-Time Services: 50% deposit charged upon confirmation; the rest is due by the last service date (auto-charged).
– Declined Payments: You’ll be notified immediately and have 24 hours to resolve it. A 10% late fee (minimum $20) applies after a second declined attempt.

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Contract Terms
This agreement starts when you sign it and continues until either of us ends it. You can book additional services online anytime, depending on availability. By signing, you authorize Hands N Paws to enter your home and care for your pets without needing extra contracts for confirmed bookings.

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Thanks for trusting Hands N Paws with your furry family! 🐾