San Diego: Del Mar Reptile Expo Outreach - Stand Up For Animals

Join In Defense of Animals, Rescue Not Retail, and local advocates for a peaceful outreach action outside the Pet and Reptile Expo at Del Mar Fairgrounds in north county San Diego. This is not just a protest — we’re taking urgent action to engage the public, raise awareness about the harms of the exotic animal trade, and help attendees make compassionate choices. Animals sold as pets at reptile expos suffer in filthy, cramped conditions and are treated as products rather than living beings. These events often operate without meaningful federal animal welfare protections, contributing to widespread animal suffering and fueling wildlife trafficking. We’ll be talking with visitors, distributing flyers, sharing rescue resources, and offering kid-friendly activity books and stickers — all to encourage adoption from overwhelmed rescues instead of buying animals at expos. Here are the details: What: San Diego Central Valley Reptile and Pet Expo Outreach When: Sunday, March 29, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014 Expo Hall Main Entrance Please note there is a long walk from the parking lot. Meeting Location: Meet under the big marquee at the corner of Jimmy Durante Blvd and Via de la Valle (under the big flashing sign). Contact: Jane Cartmill janecartmill@gmail.com All materials (such as posters and leaflets) will be provided. Please bring a satchel or bag to carry materials for distribution. We are working on having a large alligator prop to help attract attention! Please refrain from bringing dogs as there may not be shade or a safe place for them to lie down during the outreach.