Animalistic Behavior

Psychological profiles of serial killers often reveal that they start on their path to evil by torturing small animals. And you don’t have to be a psychologist to know there’s something wrong with anybody who doesn’t like dogs. So unless you don’t mind being mistaken for a murderer, there’s really no excuse for not showing up to Animalia Pet Expo this Saturday at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Designed for “pets and those who care for them,” Animalia celebrates the roles that dogs, cats, horses, snakes, gerbils (not just for Richard Gere), parrots, and fish play in our lives. Oh, and it’s also a chance to pick up a ridiculous outfit for Tinkerbell if you’re a Paris Hilton clone. The expo boasts more than 100 booths hawking everything from food, vaccines, clothing, accessories, and any other pet-related items you can think of. It also features educational seminars and demonstrations. But there’s also a bunch of fun activities for Rover and Jinxie, such as fashion contests, talent shows, silent auctions, and giveaways. All pets are welcome, within reason (that means leave your gigantic Everglades python at home). And if you find yourself currently sans pets, you have a chance to walk away with one at the expo’s Adopt-a-Pet area. There’s no pressure, but know you might be viewed like Jeffrey Dahmer if you walk away empty-handed. Animalia runs through Sunday.
Aug. 27-28, 10 a.m., 2011