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CORVALLIS, Ore. - Oregon State University's College of Veterinary Medicine's 19th-annual Pet Day and Open House on Saturday, May 6, is offering area residents dozens of animal-related activities, including a petting zoo, pony rides and a cat photo contest.

"This year, we are having a Hawaiian-themed Pet Day," said Jennifer Fitzpatrick, an OSU veterinary student coordinating the 2006 celebration.

The event, which is held rain or shine, is at Magruder Hall on the OSU campus, at Washington Way and 30th Street. It's free, with small fees charged for some activities. Family pets on leash are welcome.

In addition to the usual assortment of games, hospital tours, pet demonstrations, a 5-K fun run-walk, teddy bear surgery and dog wash, visitors will have the opportunity take on the role of veterinarian as details of cases are offered and treatment options presented.

In the teddy bear "surgery suite" young clients can check-in their torn or tattered stuffed animals to have "surgical repair" performed by veterinary students in full operating room regalia.

The "fun run" begins at 9 a.m., with on-site registration starting at 7:30 a.m. Most other activities run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The family-oriented program, which usually attracts thousands of visitors from the Willamette Valley, is designed to help the public learn about the full breadth of veterinary medicine, as well as the newest trends in veterinary care, animal nutrition and veterinary services, Fitzpatrick said. In addition, guests have a chance to meet Oregon's future veterinarians.

With OSU celebrating Mom's Weekend the same day as Pet Day, Fitzpatrick is encouraging visitors to wander about the entire campus.

"There'll be a shuttle bus between Mom's Weekend events and Pet Day and we really want to encourage people to get out and experience the rest of the campus during their time here at OSU."

Mom's Weekend events include a Renaissance Faire, and art, music and dance exhibitions.