Held in Phoenix Park, Rhodes from 2pm to 6pm, the free community event will feature pet-themed displays and activities including dog demonstrations, info stalls, children’s craft, fun photo opportunities, pop up café and Oz Harvest food truck and more.
Bring along your furry friends and learn about Council’s responsible pet ownership program, which covers everything from pet registrations and microchipping to keeping pets healthy and happy at home so they do not disturb neighbours.
“As a pet-friendly Council, we know how much people adore their companion animals,” Mayor Angelo Tsirekas said.
“For many people, especially empty-nesters, pets often play the role of surrogate children, providing them with comfort and affection.
“I invite all dog lovers to bring along your favourite furry pals to our doggy day out and share in the fun-filled atmosphere.”
Sydney All Breeds Training Club in Concord will perform a dog obedience demonstration and there will be a taste of country life with a fast-paced, sheep dog show at the event.
Storytime in the Park and dog-themed craft will keep youngsters entertained, while visitors can have portraits sketched by a caricaturist and pledge to be a #PawesomePetOwner in fun snaps with their pets, which will then be shared on Instagram.
Council officers will also provide information and seek input from residents about proposed off-leash areas in Rhodes.
There are currently just over 8000 dogs registered with the City of Canada Bay. Pet registration has risen significantly over the past 10 years, with Council’s records showing that only 383 dogs were registered with Council in 2008.
The Doggy Day Out marks the official launch of Council’s campaign to tackle dog poo; a key Litter Strategy action working towards a 50 per cent reduction in litter in hotspots across our area by 2021.
“We strive to balance community amenity, animal welfare and environmental preservation,” Mayor Tsirekas said.
Sustainability officers have been conducting dog poo audits in parks and open spaces across Rhodes to gauge problem areas and inform the best places to install new dog poo bag dispensers and bins.
Over two days in March, officers counted 181 droppings across seven sites in Rhodes with Phoenix Park Lower recording the highest number (75) and King George V Park the lowest (0).
“We have a zero target for dog poo litter – it’s a dirty habit that stops people from enjoying our open spaces and we want to stamp it out,” Mayor Tsirekas said.
“We will be educating pet owners to clean up after their pet, bag it and bin it – it's all part of our campaign to encourage responsible pet ownership and keep our spaces clean and pristine.”
For more info about Companion Animals in the City of Canada Bay, visit our .