Mutts on Main in Downtown Gainesville is returning to the historic square on March 25.
According to Main Street Manager Nicole Parham, the annual pet expo will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will highlight dog adoptions/fostering at the Hall County Animal Shelter.
“The downtown square is a pet-friendly environment on any day, but this day we celebrate all things dogs and there will be dogs everywhere,” Parham said. “Bring your dog, shop for your dog, enjoy other people’s dogs, enjoy dog entertainment, and hopefully we’ll see as many dogs adopted as possible from our partners who work together as the main response teams in Hall County. In-person adoptions at the event will be hosted by the Hall County Animal Shelter.”
Those who attend the event will enjoy “K-9s in Flight” disc dog shows at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
K-9 units from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office and Gainesville Police Department will also be on hand, with the HCSO offering a demonstration at 11 a.m. followed by a meet-and-greet. GPD K-9s will visit and meet with attendees at 2 p.m.
Mutts on Main will also feature a fashion show highlighting local boutiques and dogs up for adoption starting at noon. The fashion show will feature pet contests for “Best Dressed”, “Best Trick” and “Look Alike”. 100 percent of proceeds from the $5 entry fee will support adoptions at the animal shelter.
There will also be a live performance by the Becky Simon Band at 12:45 p.m.
“This community favorite, smaller expo-style event is a good way to encourage people to get some sunshine, enjoy each other's company and have plenty of space to move around, shop and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown," Parham said.
Parham highlighted that the expo will feature several pet-related vendors and artisans, offering products such as pet food, pet clothing and pet portraits.
“We'll also have Paw Paws Peanuts for the humans and cold treats from Frozen Frenzee for the pups!” she said.
Parham also noted attendees will have the chance to purchase t-shirts commemorating the event.
Parham encourages visitors to consider making a donation of dry dog or cat food that would benefit pets belonging to beloved Gainesville-Hall County Meals on Wheels clients while they are there. This pet food drive, hosted by the City in recognition of Georgia Cities Week April 23-29, strives to ensure every member of Meals on Wheels client families is well nourished and cared for. Donations will be accepted April 3-28 at various locations throughout the City, but your early contributions at Mutts on Main will help volunteers start off strong and see to it that no pet goes hungry.
According to a press release, all dogs are welcome but must be leashed. Waste bags will be located throughout the square to help preserve the beauty of downtown Gainesville.
Bradford Street will be closed during the event, and those traveling in the area are urged to drive carefully and watch for pedestrians and pets.
