Pets posing with Santa, dogs jumping off docks into a pool of water, pigs racing for hot dogs and homeless dogs getting grooming makeovers are some of the featured events at the fourth annual Pittsburgh Pet Expo today and tomorrow at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown.

Perhaps the most popular feature in past expos has been the bring-your-pets policy. Last year about 10,000 people attended, and people who showed up without their own dogs seemed to be the exception rather than the rule. A small percentage showed up with cats or ferrets. All pets must be leashed or in carrying cases or crates. Most pet owners opt for leashes.

The quality and quantity of "freebie" handouts also has been a hit with pet owners. A total of 94 vendors will attend this year -- up from 79 last year. Many of them hand out free items, including pet food, pet treats and pet items.

New this year is the Black and Gold Pup Rally at 3:30 p.m. tomorrow. Owners are encouraged to dress pets in Steeler colors. The first 30 to register will receive free packages of new Snausages football dog snacks.

Animal Friends will do grooming makeovers of dogs that are available for adoption. Though the grooming will go on backstage, Pet Expo attendees will see the dramatic "befores" and "afters" today at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and tomorrow at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Other rescue groups and shelters also will bring animals.

Well-trained dogs will be in the spotlight with demonstrations by the Allegheny County sheriff's office K-9 Unit, Misty Pines Dog Park and Paws with a Cause, which raises and trains dogs to assist people with disabilities.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow. Admission is $8 for adults. Children 12 and younger get in free. Free admission tickets are available at Giant Eagle stores with purchase of any three participating Pet Expo products. Those who present convention center parking tickets at the Pet Expo box office will receive a booklet with an approximate value of $10 in pet product coupons.

The event is sponsored by Clear Channel Radio. Go to www.PittsburghPetExpo.com for further information.