22nd Annual America's Family Pet Expo Offers Family-Friendly Entertainment, Pet Adoptions, Shopping, Stage Shows and Hands-On Interaction with More Than 1,000 Species of Animals

The 22nd annual America's Family Pet Expo will return to the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 15, 16 and 17. The expo provides a weekend of entertainment for Southern California residents with animal performances, stage shows, shopping and the chance to interact with nearly 100 breeds of dogs, cats, birds, fish, llamas, reptiles, pigs, rats, mice, rabbits and exotic animals to hold, learn about and adopt.

New to the 2011 show is the Aquatic Experience, an innovative exhibit of 1,000-gallons filled with fish from different regions of the world. Dozens of freshwater fish, saltwater fish and live plants will be donated by Segrest Farms, the world's largest wholesale, ornamental fish distributor.

2011 scheduled performances include:

• JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show - Watch in awe as dogs perform in an exciting, action-packed show featuring incredible stunts choreographed to upbeat music.
• Medieval Times Horse Show - Travel back to the Middle Ages and root for your favorite knight and his noble horse as they compete.
• Splash Dogs - Join these dock diving dogs for some serious hang time, as they leap through the air to create a big splash as they land in the pool.
• Joe Krathwohl's Free Flight Bird Show - Experience Las Vegas entertainer, "The Birdman's" array of exotic birds, basketball-playing Cockatoos and a juggling Blue and Gold Macaw.

America's Family Pet Expo donates hundreds of booth spaces to local pet rescues and shelters for onsite pet adoptions. Last year's show was responsible for the adoption of 668 animals. VCA Animal Hospitals, pet adoption sponsor, will support the onsite shelter/rescue organizations' efforts to ensure each adoptee has a healthy start by offering a certificate for a free first exam at one of its hospitals.

America's Family Pet Expo is presented by the World Pet Association (WPA), a 60-year-old nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting responsible pet care.

The OC Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. Event hours are Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sat. 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Sun. 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

General admission is $12, seniors 60 & over are $10. Children 6-12 are $6. Youth 5 years and under are free. Active Military with a valid ID get in free. General parking is $5. General Admission tickets may be purchased at a $2 discount at www.PetExpoOC.org. For further information, please call (800) 999-7295.