Calling all dog lovers!
An event on Sunday 7 March will be perfect for you.
The Street Paws Festival is returning to Newcastle to celebrate everything to do with man’s best friend.
From humble beginnings three years ago, the event has become an important fundraising and awareness tool for local rescue services, including Dog Rescue Newcastle and Tiki Animal Rescue.
“It started in Marrickville in Sydney,” organiser Sharon Garrard said.
“But, it was meant to be a small event for a couple of pet stalls, however it turned into a big one very quickly.
“Street Paws Festival started for so many different reasons but one of the main things we stand for is adopt, don’t shop.
“We thought it was really important to shine a light on what animal rescue services do because they work so hard, and fundraise whenever we can.
“This year there’s pet stores, food trucks, kids activities, competitions and giveaways.”
After postponing a gaggle of functions due to COVID-19, Sharon says the team is very excited to be returning to the calendar.
“We did have a lot of events [scheduled] last year but Newcastle was our last one in February 2020 before coronavirus hit,” she said.
“We have COVIDSafe measures in place.
“There is an entry and exit point at the event and we will keep an eye on numbers – as long as there is a good flow of people and everyone is social distancing, it should be okay.”
Sharon added the attending rescue services would likely have some of the dogs that are available for fostering or adoption with them.
“If you are looking for an opportunity to find a forever friend you may find one,” she said.
“We’ve had some really good success stories where dogs have been adopted at the event.”
Weather permitting, it is all due to start at 10am at The Station in Newcastle (corner of Scott and Watt streets).
Sharon invited everyone to come along (with their pooches) to enjoy the fun and free event.
“Come and enjoy all the dogs, every shape and size and breed,” she said.
“For people attending with a dog, all dogs need to be on leash and well-behaved and people need to pick up their poo.”
To stay up-to-date with the event, visit the Street Paws Festival Facebook page.
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