Barkham at Markham Dog Park in Sunrise will play host to you and your companion animals at this year's Petpalooza. The event will be held Saturday, March 24 and Sunday, March 25 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. This is one event that will have everything a pet person could desire, including:

Off leash doggie playground
Pet adoptions
Pet psychic
K-9 sports Frisbee and fly ball
Micro chip clinic
Ask the trainer sessions
Vendors, exhibitors, speakers
The Magnificent Mutt contest finale
Entertainment
Kids' dance contest
Pet massage demos
Pet look-alike contest
Pet photos
Doggie ice cream and goodies

Right before we sent out this month's NewsPetter, we found out Sarasota County will soon be setting a public hearing on whether or not doggie dining will become a reality in this part of Florida. We've reported for some time now on our doggie dining page the matter was "under discussion." Seems so many people have been emailing the county, asking for doggie dining, the County Commission decided to get beyond discussing the issue by voting to hold a public hearing on the matter.

The commissioners have yet to actually schedule the hearing, but we're sure the people who wrote before - and now, others of course - will remind them, if necessary, then attend the hearing once a day and time is set.

The Beach House Suites by The Don CeSar is oceanfront, relaxed, affordable and, best of all, pet-friendly. This is the sister property of The Don CeSar Beach Resort, A Loews Hotel.

A bit more laid back than the Resort, the Beach House offers terrific accommodations for families and others seeking more long-term stays. Multiple pets are permitted, but they must each be under 25 pounds. There is a $25 pet fee per stay. A health certificate signed and dated by a veterinarian within ten days of the pet's stay must be presented at check in.

Editor's Note: As always, verify pet policy before making a reservation.

1. Pets - the new druggies? According to the Animal Health Institute, Americans bought $2.9 billion worth of pet drugs in 2005 - twice the amount spent in 2000. They've had inspiration: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved more than 40 new pet drugs during those five years.

Meet Ronnie Gant, very beloved companion to June Johnson of Orange City. Ronnie Gant was named for a former Atlanta Brave baseball player.

"My rascal is very protective of me and his home," June said. "He's very alert when there is someone else in the house and will sit between me and an outsider."