Successful pet show comes to Johannesburg

The first World of Dogs & Cats and Pet Expo (WODAC) at Cape Town's Good Hope Centre held from 19-21 November 2010 attracted more than 10 000 visitors and showcased dogs, cats, fish, horses, birds, reptiles, fish and exotic creatures. Furthermore, pet-lovers were able to explore nutrition options, accessories, toys, treats and information about breeders, training and charities.

"Due to the success of the expo, the enthusiasm of visitors and exhibitors alike and the feedback we've had, WODAC will be hosted at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 22-24 July 2011 and in Cape Town in November," says WODAC organiser Brian Blades.

The 'stars' were out in full force at the expo, such as Buddy, the smart-talking brindle boxer who is the "spokesdog" of the popular Toyota advertising campaign and the main attraction at the McCarthy Toyota Western Cape stand. He and fellow animal celebrity Oscar from the WorldWoof Tour were kept busy "pawing" autographs and having their picture taken with fans.

The expo benefited from a wide-ranging R3.5-million public relations and marketing campaign, with robust website traffic that saw 13 000 unique visitors to the official expo website in the run-up to the event.

Go to www.dogscats.co.za for updates or join WODAC on Facebook.