Heights Libraries' first pet show draws howls, meows and ribbits of delight

Sherrie Williams (left) and Kierstyn Dixon share their enthusiasm for their yellow labrador, Jasmine

Maybe it was the robo dwarf hamsters that said it best: “Squeal!”

The small patch of lawn across the street from the Lee Road Library could barely contain the action and excitement as pets, owners and spectators enjoyed the Heights Libraries’ first community pet show on June 15.

The show was made possible by a grant from the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation, in honor of children’s author Keat's book, Pet Show!  Like the show in the book, the library’s pet show featured a surprising variety of animals. In addition to dogs and cats, the young participants brought dwarf frogs, fish, a ferret, a rabbit, a toad, dwarf hamsters, and even a sow bug (also known as a “roly poly”).

Henry Drak, children’s librarian, emceed the event, encouraging each child to tell the crowd about his or her pet, and to demonstrate what makes each pet special. Some dogs did tricks, and several pets wore costumes, including a cat named Gizmo, who sported a baseball cap and Cleveland Indians T-shirt. 

Each pet clearly had a special place in the heart of its owner. “It was so interesting to hear from the kids what they loved about their pets, and to hear them describe life at home with them,” said Drak. “These animals are clearly well-loved family members.”

The show also featured an educational component: The van Bakeren Foundation, a local nonprofit animal-welfare organization, was on hand to educate both kids and adults about the importance of proper pet care, including regular checkups and vaccinations.

Sheryl Banks

Sheryl Banks is the marketing and community relations manager for Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library.

Read More on Library
Volume 4, Issue 7, Posted 10:17 AM, 07.05.2011