Pets in the Park

Advertisement graphic for Pets in the Park, a free event presented by City of Stonnington. At Central Mark Malvern East on Sunday 23 March 2025, from 11am to 3pm.

 

The City of Stonnington's much-loved Pets in the Park event returns to Central Park in Malvern East on Sunday 23 March 2025!

Our annual celebration of all things pets is the purrfect day out for you and your animal friends. It features presentations, competitions, activities, information and market stalls that will tickle your tail feathers (or scales!) from 11 am to 3 pm.

There will be enjoyable activities for all ages, along with valuable information on responsible pet ownership, pet safety, and health.

Pets are welcome to attend the day's activities, secured on a lead at all times. You are responsible for picking up after your pet. Furry, feathery or scaly, everyone can enjoy and learn at Pets in the Park.

2025 event highlights

  • Expert stage presentations about pet wellbeing and management, with Australian native animal encounters and more!
  • Children's activities include animal face painting with Rosy Red, and arts and crafts workshops with Smart Art, The Duldig Studio and A Fitting Connection.
  • Don’t miss the chance for a pet portrait by Dog Photog.
  • Enter the Superstar Pet Competition for a chance to win the Best Trick and Best Dressed Awards, judged by our special guest and event ambassador, "Aussie Yuki."
  • Explore over 50 market stalls featuring popular food vendors, animal welfare organisations, and the latest pet products and services!

Main Stage program schedule

Time Event

11:00 am

Welcome to Pets in the Park
Lara Shannon, Stonnington Animal Management
11:10 am Native Australian Animals - Interactive Australian Wildlife Encounter
WildlifeXposure
11:55 am What to Consider when Adopting a Pet
Lara Shannon
12:10 pm Pet Poop Composting
The Urban Nanna
12:20 pm Meet the stallholders
12:35 pm Foster Caring and Volunteering at Save-A-Dog Scheme
Save-A-Dog Scheme
12:45 pm Enhancing Dog and Cat Health for Allergy Relief
Dr Nicole Rous and Lara Shannon
1:10 pm Superstar Pet Competition
Sponsored by Ovolo Hotels
1:55 pm Understanding dog and cat body language – what they are trying to tell you!
Lara Shannon
2:10 pm Vulnerable & Endangered - Interactive Australian Wildlife Encounter
WildlifeXposure

Download a copy of the main stage timetable(PDF, 442KB).

Event details

Main Stage Presenters

Presentation Description

Native Australian Animals - Interactive Australian Wildlife Encounter

WildlifeXposure

Discover Australia’s amazing biodiversity and meet its unique mammals, birds, marsupials, amphibians, and reptiles. Experience the thrill of touching and holding hand-raised gliding possums and interacting with native parrots, lizards, frogs, or turtles. Get up close with apex predators, encounter non-venomous pythons, and marvel at both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles!

When to consider adopting a pet

Lara Shannon
Pooches at Play

Looking to adopt a pet? Pooches at Play's Lara Shannon highlights everything you need to consider when choosing the right pet for your lifestyle and understanding the long-term commitment, financial, emotional and other needs of owning pets of all shapes and sizes. Find the right pet and adopt it for life.

Pet Poop Composting

The Urban Nanna

Owning a pet is incredibly rewarding, but the growing awareness of their environmental impact leads many people to seek more sustainable ways to care for their pets. Join Anna, The Urban Nanna, to learn how to manage pet waste sustainably by composting your pet's poop.

Foster Caring and Volunteering at Save-A-Dog Scheme

Save-A-Dog Scheme

Have you ever considered fostering a dog or cat or volunteering at your local shelter? Join the Stonnington-based rescue organisation Save A Dog Scheme to learn about becoming a foster carer and explore various volunteer opportunities.

Enhancing Dog and Cat Health for Allergy Relief 

Dr Nicole Rous and Lara Shannon

Pooches at Play

Shy Tiger

Is your pet constantly scratching, suffering from frequent ear infections, or having digestion issues? Dr Nicole Rous and Lara Shannon have some key tips to help prevent and manage allergies in dogs and cats.

Superstar Pet Competition

Don’t miss your chance to get involved in the Pets in the Park annual Superstar Pet Competition sponsored by Ovolo Hotels South Yarra. Prizes are up for grabs for ‘Best Trick’ and ‘Best Dressed’, so get ready to strut your fluff. 

  • First place prize for Best Dressed and Best Trick is a $350 voucher for 1-night accommodation for two adults plus their dog at Ovolo Hotels
  • More prizes to be announced.

Register from 11am at the Stonnington information stall.

Understanding dog and cat body language - what they are trying to tell you!

Lara Shannon

Pooches at Play

Animal behaviourist and trainer Lara Shannon will help us interpret the body language of dogs and cats, explaining what these animals are trying to communicate. Learn to recognize the subtle and more obvious signs your dog or cat displays to indicate their feelings.

Vulnerable and Endangered - Interactive Australian Wildlife Encounter

WildlifeXposure

Some Australian species are facing real challenges in our modern world. The number of Australian animals becoming endangered and extinct has accelerated alarmingly. Learn how we can help conserve and protect the future of vulnerable, threatened or endangered species and be given the privilege to see, touch and hold these rare and wonderful creatures.

Stallholders

Stallholder Description

3 Hound Sausages/Doggie Do Designs

3 Hound Sausages and Doggie Do Designs are handmade craft stores dedicated to the dachshund and dog community with a focus on using locally sourced materials. We create bespoke pieces that you and your furry friend will treasure for a long time to come.
B+T Pets A magical pet wonderland with a focus on Australian single ingredient treats and chews, fashion and fun party wear for all occasions. 

Big Dog and Skippy

Big Dog & Skippy is a Melbourne-based online dog boutique specialising in colourful and high-quality dog accessories. We have everything you need to help you, and your pup get ready for your next adventure together.
Bones and Whiskers Premium, natural treats for happy, healthy dogs.

Canine Kinetics

We are a small boutique clinic based in the heart of bustling Prahran, offering canine physical rehabilitation, hydrotherapy and physiotherapy. We work very closely with you, the owner, your dog and your vet to ensure the best personalised treatment plan for your dog.

Cocker Spaniel Rescue Australia

Cocker Spaniel Rescue Australia (CSRA) is a breed-specific, foster-based, no-kill rescue group and registered charity. We take in Cocker Spaniels young, old, so-called “unadoptable”, and everything in between.

To help raise much-needed funds, foster carers make dog enrichment items such as snuffle mats and snuffle balls that will be available at our stall.

Comfy Tails

Comfy Tails was created because we love dogs and love fabric, so it made sense to pair the two up. We decided to create a fun 

product range focusing on quality, functional, colourful and aesthetically pleasing pet accessories.

All Comfy Tails products are designed, printed and made in Melbourne and are loved all around Australia.

Dog Sht

Locally owned and operated, Dog Sht is Australia’s only store exclusively stocking Australian owned, ethical and sustainable dog brands.

Once Over Once Over – Designed for Dogs. Made for Good. Specialising in making raised dog beds from reclaimed timber, thoughtfully designed and handcrafted to last a lifetime.

Dogs Country Club and Kennel Resort

Two holiday resort locations that offer holiday boarding for dogs of all ages and sizes. Luxury accommodation suits the needs of each individual guest, with managers living on site to offer 24/7 care. Our convenient K9 Kab taxi service can transport our guests to and from their home.
 

Eastside Style Co

Streetwear inspired walking accessories for small doggos: harnesses, waterproof collars and leads, poop bag holders and poop carriers clip on tags. Available in 6 vibrant colours for the fashionable pup.
Ella and Friends Photography Ella and Friends provides bespoke pet photography in Melbourne’s fabulous locations – come and check out our marquee and have a chat so we can show you our fabulous offers.

Evia Designs - Pet Impression Jewellery

Capture the nose or paw print impression of your beloved pet and transform it into a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery. Celebrate the bond and unconditional love you share with a personalised necklace, bracelet or ring in sterling silver or solid 9ct gold.
Forever Friends Animal Rescue Forever Friends Animal Rescue is a volunteer-run charity that rescues and rehabilitates vulnerable animals. Rescued animals receive veterinary care and behavioural rehabilitation in foster homes until they find safe, loving forever homes.
Greyt Greys Greyhound Rescue

Greyt Greys Rescue (GGR) is a registered, non-profit charity dealing in love and long snoots since 2017. We are a volunteer-run rescue, passionate about rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming greyhounds.

Visit our stall for information on greyhound rescue, adoption and care, and browse our selection of human and dog goods. All money raised goes toward our greyhound rescue and rehabilitation program.

Howler Collection

Howler Collection is a contemporary pet label that values quality, functionality, and sustainability. Our dog and cat harnesses and accessories showcase exclusive designs and features while celebrating all things colour!
Ingrid's Haven Ingrid's Haven is a not-for-profit, no-kill cat shelter located in Victoria. Many of the Haven cats have been saved from death row at the local pound, rescued and cared for by Ingrid and her volunteers until new loving homes can be found. Come and meet some of the loyal band of artisans/crafters who sew/knit/crochet items for humans and felines to raise much-needed funds. 
K9 Katering K9 Katering supplies a range of quality and unique dog treats. We seek to build an impressive, tailored menu packed with the finest selection of gourmet dog treats. We source only the finest and freshest produce that are filled with real health benefits with no additives, chemicals or preservatives and coming from free-range, grass-fed animals.
Laila and Me At Laila and Me your pet’s health is our No.1 priority. We use locally sourced produce, turning it into affordable, high quality, single ingredient treats. No nasties to be seen! All our pet treats are vet and pet nutritionist approved and we are also proudly supporting Aussie farmers.

Lenny's Kitchen

Lenny's Kitchen Muesli is formulated in conjunction with renowned and respected Vet, Dr Bruce Syme BVSc (Hons). Our Melbourne made muesli contains 70% Australian ingredients-fruit, vegetables, plants, herbs, good grains and essential nutrients. Raw feeding made easy!

Pawzzle

What started as one woman’s passion for crafting puzzle feeders for cats has grown into a mission to support local pet-loving artisans. Discover handcrafted toys, gourmet treats and enriching goodies for dogs and cats – all made with care in small batches by Melbourne creators. Support local artisans. Celebrate unique, Australian made quality. Spoil your pets with the best.
 Pet Planet

 

We understand that sometimes you might be too busy to take care of your pets. Our smart products make it possible to be close to one’s pet, take care of watering, feeding and temperature of living environment, even if you cannot be with them. We source high-quality and well-priced pet products. We’re offering special discounts of up to 50% off for Pets in the Park 2025.

Ragamuffin Pet Photography At Ragamuffin Pet Photography, we believe the best portraits of dogs are made while exploring the great outdoors. We prefer muddy paws and fresh air to sterile studios and artificial backdrops. As one of Australia’s top animal portrait teams, we take a patient, no-pressure approach to create natural, authentic images that celebrate your special bond with your furry family members.

Sassbai

Premium pet accessories from Europe comprising of beautiful harnesses & collars from Italy, recycled cotton range from the Ukraine and handmade collars and leads from Germany. We will also have a silicone range of bowls and feeders and a grooming range that is 100% plant-based.

Save-A-Dog Scheme

Save A Dog Scheme (SADS) is a Stonnington-based rescue organisation dedicated to giving dogs and cats in need a second chance. We rescue dogs from shelters and pounds, providing them with veterinary care, training and socialisation. SADS works to match each dog with a loving, responsible home. By adopting from SADS, you’re not only gaining a loyal companion but also helping a dog find a better future.

Second Chance Animal Rescue

Second Chance Animal Rescue is dedicated to providing pets with the love and care they deserve. Our mission is to keep pets in their loving homes through outreach programs that strengthen the bond between animals and their families. We offer support, education, and resources to help pet owners navigate challenges and prevent unnecessary surrenders to shelters.
 

Sirius Alpha by Mocha Pom

Sirius Alpha by Mocha Pom is a premium dog grooming line founded by Mocha, a luxury-loving Pomeranian. Our vegan and cruelty-free products are formulated for all breeds and sizes, free of sulphates, parabens, PEGS, SLS, SLES, MEA, DEA, TEA, Phenoxyethanol, artificial colors, and synthetic fragrances.
 

Sixteen Paws Doghouse Bakery

Sixteen Paws is the bakery for dogs. Based in Gippsland, we select only the finest 100% Australian made ingredients and create delicious, gourmet treats just for your furry friends. All natural, handcrafted, small batch, preservative free. No nasties and no surprises.
Snoot Style At Snoot Style, we’re redefining dog coats and accessories by creating stylish, comfortable and practical dog clothing made from recycled or organic materials. Our unique designs have thoughtful features that put your dog’s comfort first, including our famous back zip for easy dressing and undressing. Plus 10% of our profit is donated to WWF to help empower communities, conserve biodiversity and create a greener future.

Spinning Pets Yarn

A passionate spinner of 30+ years, Marion has put a new “twist” to her craft by venturing into the world of pets and dogs. Using fibre brushed and gathered from your loved pet, Spinning Pets Yarn creates the best possible product including hats, scarves, jackets, blankets, picture frames and even Christmas baubles. These are ways for you to keep your pet with you FURever.

Squishies Flat Faced Animal Rescue

Squishies Flat Faced Animal Rescue is a 100% volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming brachycephalic (flat-faced) animals. These pets often require medical care, which can be costly. We offer handmade items for both humans and pets, with all proceeds supporting our foster pets and 15+ permanent residents with complex medical needs.
Stonnington Animal Management Responsible pet ownership involves registering, microchipping and desexing your pet, as well as cleaning up after pets and walking dogs on leads. Stonnington Animal Management will be available to discuss any questions and advise on Pet ownership in Stonnington. Come and meet your local friendly Animal Management team and take home a free goodie bag.
Sunnies Snackos Sunnies Snackos is your go to shop for all things natural and healthy. Our ethically sourced treats are by-products of foods made for human consumption, so you’ll be sure to find some weird and wacky snackos: hooves, ears, tails, necks, ribs, even things with fur on! Sunnies caters for all size dogs and even cats!

Sustainable Stonnington

Stonnington’s Sustainable Environment and Waste Education officers will be available to provide expert advice on all things waste and sustainability. The team will be providing resources to help your garden attract wildlife, kitchen caddies and compostable caddy liners to help you divert food scraps from landfills, and information on the Council’s waste and recycling services. Come along and say hi!
The Park Vets We are The Park Vets, your trusted in-home veterinary partner serving the vibrant communities of inner east Melbourne. At The Park Vets, we believe that every pet deserves exceptional care tailored to their unique needs. Our gold standard mobile veterinary service brings the clinic to your doorstep.
Tooronga Veterinary Hospital We are a new locally owned and independently operated veterinary hospital located in Hawthorn East. We offer extended hours, 7 days a week to accommodate your busy lifestyle and all pet concerns.

U GROOM

Australian made and owned pet care created by a dog groomer, U GROOM is formulated with premium ingredients to detangle, nourish and make your pup shine. Groomer approved and suitable for all breeds and puppies too.
Vet Nurse Nat

For maintenance services such as nail trims, ear cleans and AG expression, why go to the vets? Stress less and let Vet Nurse Nat come to you!

Victorian Dog Rescue Victorian Dog Rescue are a community foster care network that believes each life has equal value. For rescued dogs and cats that are too old or sick to be rehomed, we offer a Safe Haven pets’ program with all vet costs paid by us for their lifetime. Our goal is always for us to no longer be needed.
Yap Wear YAP WEAR was established in 1999 to provide quality dog wear made in Melbourne. Our Albert Park store is a mecca for dogs, offering dog wear, quality Australian healthy food, supplements and treats. We provide nutritional advice and consultations for pet parents to understand the importance of a fresh, balanced diet and gut health. We also provide private puppy training.

Other Attractions

Attraction Description
Dog Photog

Melbourne's most playful and unique dog photographer, Dog Photog, is back for another unforgettable pop-up! This year, they'll be styling your pup in one of their crisp, handmade bow ties and capturing your dog's best angle – though let's be honest, every angle is the best!

Rosy Red Face Painting

Rosy and her wildly talented team of face painters can transform you into your favourite animal or even a beloved family pet! Choose your adventure: will you be feathered, scaled, or fluffy?

Smart Art

Smart Art will host a workshop where children can unleash their creativity by decorating a calico bag with animal-themed designs. These personalised keepsakes will be perfect for exciting adventures!

Contented Chooks with Jessamy Miller

Jessamy Miller’s backyard chicken-keeping stall contains valuable information on maintaining happy, healthy, and productive hens. Children will enjoy meeting Jessamy’s unique pet bantams, Millie, Ginger, Peaches, and Creamy, and they can even feed them a corn cob.

There will be poultry-keeping equipment to explore and information sheets on poultry care.

Backyard Honey

Backyard Honey is a thriving Melbourne venture by local Stonnington residents Henry Fried and Mary Trumble. Visit their market stall for an immersive beekeeping experience featuring a live display hive and raw honey tastings. Visitors can learn about keeping backyard bees, ask expert beekeepers questions, and discover how to support local pollinators.

A Fitting Connection

Did you know that over 6,000 kilograms of clothing and textiles are sent to landfill every ten minutes? A Fitting Connection focuses on educating about responsible textile ownership and disposal. Join us for a fun, hands-on workshop to learn how to repurpose old clothing or sheets into dog or kitten toys! 

The Duldig Studio

Discover The Duldig Studio, a national treasure nestled in the heart of Malvern East. Create an animal clay sculpture to take home and learn about their upcoming lectures and art workshops program.

Frequently asked questions

Getting there

Central Park Malvern East is located at 148 Burke Road in Malvern East. The nearest public transport services are:

  • Tram route 5 at Burke Road/Wattletree Road stop

You can plan your journey using the PTV Journey Planner.

Car: There is limited parking available in the surrounding streets at Central Park. As such, we strongly recommend walking, riding, or using public transport. If you choose to drive, please allow plenty of time to find a parking space.

We are proud to promote Pets in the Park as an environmentally low-impact event. We encourage attendees to be environmentally conscious when making travel arrangements.

Is the event accessible?

Transport: There are two permanent accessible parking bays on Kingston Street near the new playground.

Public bathrooms: Accessible toilets will be available. 

Help us improve: The City of Stonnington is committed to access and inclusion for all people. We endeavour to make our events as accessible as possible. We recognise that the experience of disability and accessibility is diverse and unique to individuals and that performers and audience members still face barriers to access.

We strive to remove as many of these as possible. We understand that we won’t always get it right, and we always love to receive feedback about how we can improve as well as what we did well. 

For any questions or further information, please get in touch with access@stonnington.vic.gov.au

Will there be drinking water available?

There will be a water bottle refill station, so be sure to bring your reusable water bottle.

Can I bring my dog or pet?

Sure can, but please practice good ‘petiquette’. Pets should be kept on leash and suitably restrained as per Section 26 of the Domestic Animal Act. You are responsible for picking up after your pet.

What happens if I lose my child?

Upon arrival, please visit the City of Stonnington's information marquee to collect a temporary wristband to write your mobile number on and fix to your child's wrist. This contact number will help our event staff reunite you and your child if, in the unlikely scenario that your child gets lost. Children should not be left unsupervised at any time.

Can I set up a stall or sell at the event?

Neither stallholders nor hawkers are permitted at the event. If you are interested in having a stall at any future Council events, please register your interest on the website. Stallholders are engaged approximately three months prior to each event.

Media and Communications enquiries

  • If you share on social media, use the hashtags #PetsinthePark2025 and #WhatsOnStonnington and tag @whatsonstonnington to be featured on our social media
  • For media or photo opportunities, please contact Festivals and Events at Stonnington Council at 03 8290 1333 or events@stonnington.vic.gov.au


Special thanks to our 2025 Superstar Pet Competition sponsor 
Ovolo Hotels and our real estate sponsor Marshall White.

Ovolo Hotels South Yarra Logo.png

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