Hey there! I’m Lisa Sullivan, creator of PetPalooza!

And yes, I’m one of those people who will stop mid-sentence because there’s a dog walking by.

I’m a wife, mom, dog-and-cat mom, longtime marketing and communications professional, event producer, speaker, retreat host and community cheerleader who believes some of the best things happen when you bring good people together around something they love.

And people LOVE their pets.

Pet events are actually part of my story.

Years ago, while living in North Carolina, I created and produced the very first Carolina Pet Expo, a consumer show that brought together pet lovers, pet-related businesses, organizations, demonstrations, entertainment and plenty of four-legged fun.

I’ve also spent much of my career in marketing, communications and producing consumer shows and community events. I know that creating a successful event takes more than putting up a tent, inviting some vendors and hoping people show up. It takes the right mix of experiences, exhibitors, sponsors, entertainment, education, promotion and, most importantly, heart.

Now, all these years later, I’m bringing that experience home to Dripping Springs.

So why PetPalooza?

Because our pets are family.

They make us laugh. They comfort us. They greet us like we’ve returned from a three-year expedition when we’ve only gone to H-E-B. They sleep in ridiculous positions, steal our pillows, take over our furniture and somehow convince us that we’re the lucky ones.

And they connect us.

PetPalooza was created as a celebration of that connection, bringing together pet lovers, local businesses, rescue and animal organizations, experts, entertainment and plenty of unexpected fun for a day devoted to the animals who make our lives better.

And while PetPalooza celebrates pets, you don’t have to bring a pet to be part of it!

In fact, because of safety, comfort and insurance considerations, PetPalooza may have limitations on animals attending the event. But make no mistake, this is still going to be one seriously pet-loving day.

Come discover something new. Meet incredible organizations doing important work. Find businesses and products you didn’t know existed. Learn a little. Laugh a lot. Maybe fall in love with an animal who needs a home.

Most of all, come celebrate the joy our animals bring into our lives.

I’ve produced a lot of events over the years, but there’s something pretty special about coming full circle and creating another pet celebration, this time right here in the community I call home.

I can’t wait to welcome you to PetPalooza!

Because life is simply better with a little fur on your clothes. 🐾