We made it. They closed the DVP, shut down some key subway stations, they even blocked off a couple of westbound lanes on the 409. (I personally never remembered airports being so difficult to get to; but then again, what do I know?) The powers that be (and maybe Rob Ford) colluded together to keep us away, but we made it (albeit a little late in the day); good thing we weren't actually trying to catch a flight.
Being first time show attendees, we were immediately struck by the sheer managed chaos of the whole place. Big ups to all those who helped organise all those exhibitors, distributors, manufacturers and suppliers so well, effectively turning it into an extremely expedient process that allowed us to collect as many miniature chocolate bars as we possibly could in the shortest amount of time (also, there were some business cards). It was kind of like a grown-up version of Hallowe'en. We even saw someone dressed up as a clown (at least, we hope he was dressed up).
All gimmicks aside, the show went great. We met a lot of cool cats and got a ton of great swag. We handed out some cards and shared our vision with everyone we met. We tasted the new Purebites Freeze Dried Duck Treats (yum!), and we felt the new Canada Pooch Winter Wilderness Jackets (soft!).
The day flew by and before we knew it, security was asking us to leave. So we hid. And then they found us, and with a sterner tone asked us to leave once more. So we did. All in all, it was worth the drive to Airport Road.
A special thanks to the great people at Burgham Sales, Muttluks, Natural Pet Distributors, Tri-Natural, Canada Pooch, Nature's Variety, Smoochy Poochy, Katoby, Leis, Prairie Antlers, Natura, Pet Science, World's Best Cat Litter, Holistic Blend, Amelia Biscuit Company, Oven Baked Tradition, Freedom, PoopBags, Orange aPEEL, Daba-Doo and of course, everyone at PIJAC. We hope to see you there again next year; all the best to you and yours over the next twelve months. Woof.
And to those we missed (especially Bold Raw and Nothing Added), we're sorry! The day got away from us, but we'll be talking to you soon.
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