Dog-friendly events around Australia

There’s no better way to spend the weekend than soaking up the sun with your pooch. But instead of just taking little Minty McFluff for a walk around the block, why not make the day a social occasion for both of you?

What is it? The 2013 Cruelty Free Festival is a fun, free community event that aims to raise awareness of animal cruelty and welfare issues. You and your furry friend can look forward to a day of live entertainment, education, workshops, cooking demos and inspirational speakers. There’s also a dedicated dog zone with activities for you and your pup. You can even adopt a homeless cat or dog (if your pooch is willing, that is). Head to the website for details.

When and where? Sunday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. at Belmore Park, Haymarket, Sydney.

What is it? Head to a participating shopping centre and have your dog’s photo taken with Santa. Each shopping centre will be donating a percentage or all of the profits made to the Animal Welfare League, NSW, to help care for the shelter pets over Christmas. Click here for more information (bookings are essential).

When and where?

• Saturday, Dec. 1, 8 or 15, 2013, from 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. at Crossroads Homemaker Centre, Casula.
• Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16, 2013, 10 a.m. till 4:30 p.m., Kellyville Pets, Kellyville.
• Sunday, Dec. 2 or 16, 2013, 7 a.m. till 9 a.m., Casula Mall, Casula.
• Saturday, Dec. 15, 2013, 10 a.m. till 4 p.m., Circa Retail, Bella Vista.
• Sunday, Dec. 16, 2013, 10 a.m. till 4 p.m., Westfield Eastgardens, Eastgardens.

What is it? If you and your pooch are feeling a little, err, fuzzy around the edges, it’s time to get moving! For just $35 per hour, your dog (and you) will get super fit with a class in agility, dancing, tricks and games. Best of all, $8 is donated to the RSPCA for each full class. Head over to the Mighty Woof website for more details.

When and where? Classes are held at the following times and locations:

• Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. in Ashfield.
• Saturdays at 3 p.m. in Breakfast Point.
• Sundays at 3 p.m. till 4 p.m. at Woodcroft Lake Park.

What is it? This class will help tame even the naughtiest of pooches. Join the group and learn to teach your pup basic to competition-level obedience. For more information, click here.

When and where? Sunday mornings in Centennial Park.

What is it? Join over 15,000 people and 10,000 animals and take part in the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk. Held nationally, the event raises money for the RSPCA’s care of more than 30,000 animals entering their shelters each year. Head over to the Million Paws Walk NSW website for more information and to register (registration opens early 2014).

When and where? 2014 in locations around NSW.

Up next: Dog-friendly activities in Victoria >>