Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 10/6/25 The second my paws hit the pavement outside Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, I knew something special was up. There was an electricity in the air; the scent of gourmet treats, and the faint squeak of boutique toys. My human, Teri, clipped on my leash, adjusted my bandana, and said, “Ready, Mole’?”
Was I ever.
The Ultimate Pawty Scene
Before we even crossed the entrance, I was greeted by smiling strangers offering me biscuits, posing me on a pink carpet with a pink cowboy hat, and waving squeaky props in my face. I thought I’d trotted into the Pet Met Gala, but no, it was PetCon 2025, and it had the best snacks and swag and my four legged insta crushes.
We arrived early, which turned out to be perfect. The morning light made everything sparkle-wagging tails, polished collars, even the shiny Fi GPS trackers glinting on some very fashionable necks. Before the crowds poured in, I had space to sniff, explore, and make a few new friends.
Tasting My Way Through the Booths
First stop: Choolip Vita Stick and Berry Good Milk. I’m not exaggerating when I say “healthy never tasted so good.” My human tried to explain antioxidants, but I was too busy licking the sample spoon clean.
At Furei, we admired their sleek leashes, collars, and little charms—my favorite was shaped like a paw holding a heart. Very distinguished, if I do say so myself.
We wagged by The Pet Collective booth, where humans gathered around screens watching videos of other dogs being adorable. I considered applying for a feature role, but my publicist (Teri) says I should pace myself.
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming was a highlight. They hosted an irresistible photo moment for furry friends in costume where I sat like a pro, chin up, smile wide. I may or may not have gotten crumbs in my fur.
And let’s not forget Kocho Ultra Absorbent Charcoal Pads. Not the most glamorous booth, but a practical one. I gave it a sniff of approval. My human said something about “good for travel days.” I’ll take her word for it.
Then we explored some of the official PetCon partners and returning favorites. Home2 Suites by Hilton, the event’s official hotel partner for the third year in a row, had a cozy setup where humans could learn about pet-friendly stays. I stretched out on their demo bed. It passed the comfort test.
Pet Teezer, by Tangle Teezer, showcased a line of brushes for every coat type, from silky Shih Tzu to rugged retriever. Teri brushed my back right there in the aisle; I pretended to tolerate it, but secretly loved it.
The Fi booth drew a crowd with its Series 3+ GPS and health-tracking collar—plus, every VIP bag came with a six-month membership. My human was already calculating how many daily steps I take (spoiler: a lot).
And because no party is complete without flair, Woof Gang Bakery hosted an irresistible photo moment for furry friends in costume. The Halloween Contest that followed was a sight to behold—pugs in pumpkins, dachshunds in dragons, and one very self-satisfied golden retriever dressed as a taco.
High-Tech Humans and Talented Artists
Of all the shiny things we saw, the Fi GPS and AI-powered collar was the one that really made Teri’s eyes light up. She said something about “finally tracking Mole without chasing him around the yard.” I pretended not to hear. She’s been using an AirTag for our cat, but this one apparently has health and behavior data, too. I’ll believe it when I see a biscuit reward attached.
Then came a quieter, magical moment: Julia Montgomery, also known as The No Look Artist, offered to draw my portrait. Teri showed her a photo, and Julia never once looked down—just her pen dancing across a white 5×7 card. Thirty seconds later, there I was: a minimalist masterpiece of me. One continuous line, soulful eyes and all. Signed and everything. My first collectible.
New Friends
Not all pets got to join the crowd. Upstairs, the adoption center was calm and bright, with volunteers introducing people to animals in need of families. Teri went alone to visit, leaving me downstairs with a treat and a promise to “be good.” She told me later about Luis, a long-haired black cat with golden eyes; Xena, a striking husky; and Amy, a gentle Siamese.
The Wallis Annenberg PetSpace team made sure every encounter was relaxed, not rushed—pets first, paperwork second. Even though dogs like me weren’t allowed inside that area, I wagged knowing some lucky animals might find new homes that weekend.
VIP Vibes and Swag Bag Brags
Teri’s VIP pass came with a bag that could rival Santa’s. It was packed with goodies—samples, toys, treats, and even a Fi Series 3+ collar membership. She said the upgrade was worth it, but honestly, I think I earned it. Still, even the general admission guests were smiling ear to ear, arms full of treats and hearts full of joy.
Between all the photo ops, the costume contest, and the sweet chaos of meeting pet celebrities like Tika the Iggy and Dexter the Balancing Dog, it was a sensory overload of the best kind.
The Space That Loves Us Back
Wallis Annenberg PetSpace really knows how to treat a dog right. Wide lawns, shaded patios, and indoor areas for cooling off—it was pet-safe, clean, and somehow managed to feel both bustling and peaceful. Humans chatted, volunteers guided, and everything ran like a well-trained golden retriever.
Inside, the stage area hosted celebrity meet-and-greets while the conference room buzzed with expert panels on training, grooming, and the pet-influencer life. Down the hall, the Wag Shop sold irresistible toys and stylish accessories. I may have drooled on one.
The Woman Behind the Wag
We eventually tracked down Loni Edwards, the founder of The Dog Agency and the creative force behind PetCon. She was strolling with a baby stroller. Naturally, Teri assumed it carried a Frenchie or corgi. Surprise: it was a real, tiny human.
Edwards told us how, after Harvard Law School and a stint in the legal world, she adopted a French bulldog whose charm turned into an online sensation. That led to The Dog Agency, the first talent management agency for pet influencers. Now representing furry stars worldwide. A few years later, she launched PetCon, the ultimate playground for pet lovers.
The agency is both women-owned and minority-owned, and Edwards has built a community that blends fun with philanthropy. This year, 100% of ticket proceeds went to Wallis Annenberg PetSpace’s Extraordinary Care Fund, supporting animals and education programs across Los Angeles.
Tails of Joy
As the afternoon sun dipped, the air was filled with chatter, barking, laughter, and the occasional squeal of a delighted child. I leaned against Teri’s leg, tired but content, crumbs on my nose and a new collar around my neck.
Teri whispered to Loni Edwards, “Look, you’re making people and pets happy.”
Edwards smiled and replied, “That’s why we do this.”
And that’s why my human and I left with more than photos and swag. We left reminded that joy is contagious. And sometimes it has fur.
