Many other new faces will be joining the show line-up including renowned animal trainer, Peta Clarke (film dog training credits include the likes of Babe, Red Dog, Superman Returns and Wolverine), Australian Working Dog Rescue Int. (AWDRI) ambassador and Miss World Australia 2013, Erin Holland and one of Melbourne’s media favourites, 3AW’s Pat Panetta.
Continuing to support the show’s celebration of Laura Vissaritis and Tony Knight will also return in 2016 to captivate, educate and inform visitors with their extensive knowledge and insights into dog training and behaviour with tips for a healthy, happy dog.
The KONG Celebrity Vet Stage
Playing host to an exciting line up of live demonstrations, educational talks and hands on advice from some of the biggest names in vet and pet care, including Dr Chris Brown, the KONG Celebrity Vet Stage will host daily presentations on everything from a dog Q&A with Dr Harry to Laura Vissaritis explaining exactly what your dog wants you to know.
The Royal Canin Arena will also showcase man’s best friend impressing with acts of agility, skill and intelligence, Frisbee catching and flyball.
CANIDAE Rescue Dog Zone
Since the 2013, the Melbourne Dog Lovers Show has been responsible for pairing 2,000 dogs from Victorian shelters with canine adorers and relocating them to loving homes. The Rescue Zone plays an integral role in helping visitors select the perfect pooch companion, including expert advice on what the adoption process entails. The Dog Lovers Show remains committed to raising awareness for dog rescue and increasing the number of rehoused abandoned and homeless dogs in 2016.
Military Working Dogs Tribute
Launched in 2015 to commemorate the ANZAC centenary and one of the ongoing show highlights, the emotive Military Working Dogs (MWDs) tribute will be expanded at this year’s event. Moving presentations and personal stories from veterans and ADF personnel will accompany in-depth historical information on MWDs in war along with artefacts and heraldry.
OPTIMUM Breed Showcase
OPTIMUM presents the ever popular Breed Showcase with the largest number of DOGS Victoria breed clubs in one place this year! From cheeky Chihuahuas to boisterous Boxers, literally hundreds of dogs of all shapes and sizes will be on site, with dedicated experts to answer any and all questions about the breeds. New to the event is a “Meet the Breeds” presentation in the Royal Canin Arena, where visitors can meet and learn more about a wide array dogs and what it’s actually like to live with them.
Pat-A-Pooch Zone
The new-look Pat-A-Pooch Zone is set to be an endorphin-releasing hub as visitors pat, cuddle and snuggle a plethora of pooches and puppies in a relaxed setting. Attendees will also get the chance to build Australia’s most loved breeds block by block in LEGO® with experts on hand to provide guidance and ignite inspiration during the one-of-a-kind, hands on experience.
Guinness World Record Attempt
Some of Australia’s highest flying pooches will take a leap of faith in an attempt to break the canine high jump World Record of 172.7cm, currently held by Cinderella May, a Holly Grey from the USA. Visitors will also be able to find the latest and greatest stuff to spoil their pooch, with loads of free samples and fantastic new products and services being launched at the show – it’s like a giant supermarket for dogs. As the ultimate event for dog lovers of all ages, the Melbourne Dog Lovers Show gives dog devotees an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the companionship, unconditional affection and joy that our furry friends bring to our lives every day.
Event info: Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton, Melbourne, Friday 29 April-Sunday 1 May, 9.30am – 5pm daily
