By Emmanuel T. Erediano
Variety News Staff

THE football field at the airport will be the site for next month’s pet show in celebration of CNMI Pet Week.
The Pet Assistance and Welfare Services and Beautify CNMI! have asked the Commonwealth Ports Authority to allow the use of the football field on May 12, the final day of CNMI Pet Week which also coincides with National Pet Week that starts May 6.
Katie Busenkell of PAWS, who also chairs Beautify CNMI!’s animal welfare committee, said they are now preparing tents, an audio system, chairs and tables for the event.
A total of $260 has been donated by pet owners who, according Busenkell, are among the people who are excited about the show.
It was supposed to be a $10 donation from each individual, but one supporter gave $100 while another contributed $20, she said.
These donations, Busenkell said, will go to the prize fund.
In-kind donations, which may include dog food and pet care supplies, are also being solicited.
It will be the first time for the CNMI to celebrate pet week.
Established in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Association, National Pet Week is celebrated throughout the United States to promote responsible pet ownership and public awareness of veterinary medicine, and celebrate the human-animal bond.
The pet show has been something that PAWS wants to do for a long time here in the CNMI, said Busenkell who also lauded Beautify CNMI! for helping make the event possible.
They are holding the show, she said, because they want people to learn to enjoy their pets “in perfection.”
Busenkell said between 20 and 30 dogs will be presented in the show.
The categories include the fattest pet, shortest legs, ugliest-best of show, the most uneven ears, the booniest and the most disobedient.
Pets are required to have leashes and collars, and pooper scoopers are also a must.