On March 26, the team at Petland Lewis Center packed up a few very special guests (four puppies and a pair of parakeets!) and headed to the ABC6 Senior Health Expo at Polaris Fashion Place. It was our first time attending, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like a natural fit.
(You can watch a clip from the event on ABC6’s YouTube channel here.)
Among a wide range of senior-focused vendors, Petland Lewis Center was the only pet-focused presence at the event, and it was a genuine privilege to represent the role animals can play in everyday wellbeing, and to do so in such a hands-on, personal way.
Throughout the day, more than 200 attendees stopped by. Some came over out of curiosity, others were drawn in by a wagging tail or a soft chirp. Many stayed, settling into conversation, sharing stories, and spending time with the animals.
Creating Connection Through Simple Moments
Our crew featured a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachshund, Yorkshire Terrier, and an Aussiepoo, each one happily soaking up attention and cuddles. The parakeets added their own quiet charm, sparking easy conversation and a few unexpected smiles.
We kept things intentionally simple. No set schedule, no formal structure; just space to pause, connect, and enjoy the moment. Guests could sit with a puppy, ask questions, or chat with our team. We handed out custom tennis balls, talked through the realities of pet ownership, and met people where they were.
Later, reflecting on the experience, our team shared: “Not only do pets provide comfort and levels of physical activity to care for them, but having to take your pet outside or to the vet draws a sense of extra community. It is a great way to build an established routine and sense of ownership and companionship for seniors.”
That sentiment echoed throughout the day. Conversations naturally turned to companionship: what it looks like, how it evolves, and why it matters. For many, it wasn’t just about the animals in front of them, but the memories and connections they represent.
For Petland Lewis Center, being part of the ABC6 Senior Health Expo is exactly the kind of work we care about. Showing up, sharing what we know, and creating space for real connection.
We’re grateful to be part of it and even more thankful for the time, stories, and small moments we shared throughout the day. It’s something we’re proud to be part of, and something we look forward to continuing.
