Orland Township to Unleash Fifth Annual Pet-Palooza

ORLAND TOWNSHIP – Orland Township will host its fifth annual Pet-Palooza event on Saturday, June 25, from noon to 3 p.m., rain or shine, at the Orland Township Office grounds located at 14807 S. Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park.  Make “No Bones About It” the event, which has been a community staple, includes a pet parade, special pet contests, free-food sampling, local musical bands, face painting, trackless train rides and inflatables. Your favorite princesses’ and super heroes will be on hand to all the kid’s delight as well as your favorite Chicago Hockey team mascot “Tommy Hawk”, who will lead a furry pack of pets and their owners to a musical march around the Palooza.  “Sparky” the Orland Fire Protection Department dog is also in line to make an appearance. Raffle prizes, and a new Bingo Tent will also contribute to the number of attractions. 

“We are certainly pleased that we are able to once again host another family, fun event like this, said Orland Township Supervisor and founder of the Pet Pantry’s Crashy’s Corner.  “Pet vendors and exhibitors contribute to our Pet-Palooza experience with a kind array of donations, it really promises to be an enjoyable summer afternoon for the entire community.”

Furry companions from local animal shelters who are in need of finding their “forever homes” will be present as well as representatives from various animal rescue groups.  Water stations and shading areas will be available for all animals, as well as pools where pets can get their paws wet.  Professional dog trainers will be on hand as well, demonstrating ideal dog behavior and healthy pet safety tips.

Last year’s Pet-Palooza had to be postponed due to the canine flu.  Orland Township cancelled what would have been the fifth annual Pet-Palooza parade, festival and fundraiser as a precautionary measure to prevent the possible transmission of the canine flu sweeping Chicagoland. This year's event will go on as planned.

No pet? No sweat! You can still attend Pet-Palooza and experience a day of wholesome family entertainment while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from the Pet-Palooza help support the Orland Township Pet Pantry, which provides food and supplies for pet owners experiencing financial difficulty in feeding or caring for a pet. The Pet Pantry, known as “Crashy’s Corner,” gratefully accepts donations of canned dog or cat food, kitty litter, leashes, collars, shampoo, treats, toys and other miscellaneous pet items. Donations may be provided at Orland Township, 14807 S. Ravinia Ave., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For additional information, please call (708) 403-4222.

Pet Palooza Rules:

• All participating pets should have up-to-date vaccinations.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
• All pets must be on leashes of six feet or less.
• Costumes for pets (and their owners!) are encouraged but not required.
• All animals must wear proper tags.