OREANDA-NEWS. Experts from 19 countries around the globe gathered today at the Expoforum Convention and Exhibition Centre to showcase their goods and services for pets at the 12,000 square metre venue. Opening the Zoosphere exhibition, Vice-Governor of St Petersburg Olga Kazanskaya remarked that the event has cemented the status of the city as the capital of the pet industry in Russia.

She went on to highlight the fact that veterinary medicine, on which the success of the entire agro-industrial sector depends, is a crucial element of the business programme. “This year, the veterinary conference is devoted to veterinary oncology and the treatment of illnesses in exotic animals. It is particularly pleasing to see young veterinary professionals getting involved and able to present their scientific research and ideas,” Kazanskaya said.

The Vice-Governor also remarked that Zoosphere is the largest event of its kind in Eastern Europe, and that for over 20 years the Zoo Show exhibition has attracted experts and pet lovers alike. Visitor numbers topped 15,000 last year, with people coming from 188 towns and cities across Russia, and 24 countries around the world. Given this level of popularity, organisers have decided to hold the next Zoo Show in May 2015 in Sokolniki, Moscow. “This development means that a network will be established for the event, providing entrepreneurs with new business and networking opportunities”, said Sergey Voronkov, CEO of ExpoForum International.