Pawtastic fun unleashed at DogFest

Four-year-old Marvin is a Great Dane that is approximately 32 inches at shoulder height. Pictured with owners Gabrielle Sales and David Duck who offered free doggie makeovers and a photoshoot at Somerset’s inaugural DogFest. Picture: JESSE HAMILTON

Fernvale Memorial Park welcomed every man and his dog as Somerset hosted its inaugural DogFest event on 13 April, transforming the park into a haven for pet lovers.

The innovative and informative doggy event featured dog training workshops, dog-friendly stalls, and best-dressed and best-trick competitions.

Griffith University professor Sharyn Rundle-Thiele, who helped organise the event, said DogFest was designed as a fun place for pet lovers to converge while teaching pet caretaking.

“The event basically aims to achieve two things, have fun, we love our dogs they’re part of our family,” she said.

“And at the same time, we want to promote responsible pet ownership.”

Mrs Rundle-Thiele said DogFest is funded by Koala Strategy Queensland who provide public education on the protection of wildlife.

“It includes teaching people how to avoid and protect wildlife,” she said.

“It’s part of a massive effort across five areas including habitat and restoration to help koalas that are endangered in southeast Queensland.”