Local store to host National Pet Week celebration

Published 12:00 am Friday, May 9, 2003

Dogs will be competing Saturday on the front lawn of Bone Appetit Canine Bakery to prove who has the best trick, best unusual marking and … worst breath?

"I don't know who will judge that yet," said store owner Pam Miller, with a laugh.

It's all in good fun for a CeleBARKtion of sorts to recognize National Pet Week.

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Miller has two goals in mind -- to educate people about being responsible pet owners and to have fun.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday people and their dogs will be able to enjoy free treats throughout the day at the store, located at 1211 Fourth Street NW. All items in the store will be at least 5 percent off, but the discount increases the better the customer does on the discount quiz.

When making a purchase, customers can choose to answer three questions to get up to 30 percent off.

Miller wants pet owners to learn the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Her quiz questions ask customers of their knowledge of pet overpopulation and the Mower County Humane Society.

"It's kind of simple, but thought-provoking," Miller said of the quiz.

Jane Roden, of the Humane Society, said many people do not realize the importance of spaying and neutering pets. There are about 40 cats at the Humane Society and 17 dog kennels. Currently, the Humane Society has room for about two more dogs, she said.

The Humane Society offers coupons to partially pay for spaying and neutering, a procedure for which costs vary depending on the health of the animal.

The Humane Society is not sponsoring the event, but Miller said she would like her store to be a resource for dog owners. Bone Appetit opened last November and sells homemade dog treats, as well as dog toys, accessories and gifts for dog lovers.

Contests, which include worst dog breath, biggest rump, best and worst trick and most unusual marking, start around 1 p.m. Saturday rain or shine and prizes will be awarded to the winners. For more information call Bone Appetit at 434-5441.

"I think people will get a kick out of it," Miller said.

Cari Quam can be reached at 434-2235 or by e-mail at cari.quam@austindailyherald.com