Get ready for a paw-some day at the inaugural 2024 Pet Expo this weekend.
The expo features 35 pet-related stalls, free kids' activities, plus plenty of fun for dogs, and is held at the Robert Schwarten Outdoor Pavilion from 9am to 3pm on Saturday 7 September.
Planning and Regulation Councillor Grant Mathers said this is the first time Council has hosted the expo which is open to all animal lovers and pet owners.
"The 2024 Pet Expo is a family-friendly event showcasing the best of the local pet community," Cr Mathers said.
"Whether you have pets or are looking for one, consider this as a one-stop-shop for a wide range of pet products and services available in our Region.
"The expo is the perfect place to learn about responsible pet ownership and access essential pet information from our local experts.
"Council will have its Local Laws Officers on hand throughout the day to provide essential information about responsible pet ownership, including dog registration, microchipping, with de-sexing vouchers available."
Pets of all types and sizes are catered for with the numerous stalls that range from pet care to dog obedience demonstrations, plus plenty of fun activities for kids and pets to take part in, including a petting zoo.
"The best part about the event is that you can bring your dog along to enjoy the day, however, we ask that they are kept on-lead for the event," Cr Mathers said.
"We've planned a few competitions throughout the day including best dressed dog and owner, so don your best look and enter to win some great prizes.
"One of our stallholders, A1 Dog Grooming, is offering free nail clipping to any Pet Expo attendees while another stallholder, MS Pet Services, is offering to engrave dog tags for a gold coin donation."
As one of the stall holders on Saturday, RSPCA Queensland Regional Inspector Cherrie Dooley encouraged the community to support the event on Saturday.
"Pets are an important part of family life for so many different reasons, the 2024 Pet Expo stands to showcase so many different aspects of experience and products to support our family pets," Ms Dooley said.
"It's also a chance to connect with like minded people and what a fun day out with the kids who will one day be pet owners themselves.
"With pet ownership comes a responsibility for the well-being of our pets and our responsibility to the community in how we manage our pets, Pet Expo may just have that answer to your question."
In addition to the stall displaying a wide range of pet retail products, there will be RSPCA staff and volunteers on hand to share their wealth of knowledge on pet care and pet adoption.
"One of our local RSPCA Inspectors will be represented on the panel discussion as well," Ms Dooley said.
"This is a great opportunity for owners to gain some insight into the reasons why barking may be occurring and provide a better understanding of how environment and enrichment may affect our dog's well-being."
