Frankston’s reputation as Victoria’s most pet-friendly city was on full display on Sunday, when thousands of locals — and their dogs, cats, snakes and even pigeons — packed Ballam Park for The Great Pet-Together.
The event drew an estimated 6,000 visitors, turning the park into a sea of wagging tails and furry faces. Families came from across the municipality to enjoy dachshund races, pet portraits, obedience displays, and more than 30 market stalls catering to every kind of creature.
“It’s such a wholesome day,” said Lilly, who came with her dog Storm.
“There’s dogs everywhere, everyone’s smiling, and it’s just nice to see the community come together.”
Another attendee, Anna, said her dogs Snickers and August “had the best day ever” — and were quick to sniff out tphe Pawtein Smoothie Bowl stall.
From fun to fairness
Beyond the festival atmosphere, the event spotlighted Frankston City Council’s growing list of pet-friendly initiatives aimed at easing the cost of ownership and improving animal welfare.
Council will continue its 12-month freeze on pet registration fees and extend waivers for working animals and foster pets. Pensioners will receive discounted rates, and new pet owners adopting from The Lost Dogs’ Home will have their first two years of registration covered.
A range of rebates and supports will also be expanded, including higher subsidies for obedience training and desexing vouchers for concession card holders.
Cr Cherie Wanat, who attended the event, said the approach was about “keeping pet ownership accessible and responsible” during a time when household costs continue to rise.
“We want people to feel confident that they can keep and care for their pets — even when money’s tight,” Cr Wanat said.
“Events like this one remind us how much joy animals bring to our lives, but they also highlight the need for real support.”
Safety, support and planning ahead
Frankston’s Returning Dogs Home Policy — which allows first-time wanderers to be returned to owners free of charge — remains one of the few in Victoria, and Council’s Pet Sanctuary Program continues to provide short-term shelter for pets when owners face hardship, family violence or homelessness.
Local charity Pets in the Park has also received $9,000 through the Frankston Charitable Fund, helping run free monthly pop-up vet clinics for residents doing it tough.
Mayor Kris Bolam, who owns a labradoodle named Murphy, said the measures form part of a broader plan to make Frankston “the benchmark for pet-friendly policy across Victoria.”
“No other council in the state offers this level of support,” he said.
“It’s about recognising pets as part of the family and building programs that reflect that.”
Looking forward
Council is now preparing its 2026–2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan, which is expected to include further incentives and community safety measures.
Residents can find details about responsible pet ownership at frankston.vic.gov.au/responsible-pet-ownership.
Sponsored fun
The Great Pet-Together was supported by Eastlink, Scratch, Ray White Langwarrin, and Karingal Hub, with assistance from Moon Dog Beach Club and the RSPCA.
Locals who attended can share their favourite moments and photos for a chance to win prizes at engage.frankston.vic.gov.au/great-pet-together.
