Furry and feathered friends of all kinds were on show as Launceston hosted the first Tas Pet Expo.
Pet lovers gathered for the one-day event, held at the Silverdome on Saturday.
Animals at the expo included exotic birds, dogs, cats, lizards, ferrets, miniature goats and many more.
A popular exhibitor was Greyhound Adoption Program Tasmania, a non-profit program operated by Tasracing to find permanent homes for greyhounds after retiring from racing.
Lianne Salerno from GAP Tas said the organisation was hoping to teach people that greyhounds make great family pets.
"There is a misconception people have in that they think greyhounds being fast runners means that they need a lot of exercise and they have lots of energy when really they only need around a 20-minute walk each day and they are happy to relax and chill out for most of the time," she said.
"They are versatile and adaptable dogs, we have different greyhounds with different personalities to suit a wide range of families. They make really great pets.
"They love to lounge around and get lots of love from people. We are hoping to raise awareness and encourage people to foster a dog, so they can have a dog for three weeks to get them adjusted to a pet lifestyle before they can be adopted."
Organiser of the event Lucy Millwood said the message of the day was to promote responsible pet ownership and the welfare of native wildlife, with all proceeds of the event to be donated to Tasmanian animal shelters.
"We have a big mix of exhibitors from selling pet products to animal welfare groups and the best thing that can come out of today would be educating kids and adults about how to look after their pets properly," she said.
"There is a jumping castle, balloon animals and a petting zoo that's had a huge lineup, so it's a super fun day. We've had lots of families come and the kids love patting all the animals.
"This is the first year there has been a Pet Expo in Tasmania, we are hoping to do have it in Hobart next year and then alternate between the Launceston and Hobart in the future."
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Nikita McGuire
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
Born and raised in Launceston, Nikita is passionate about the stories that matter to locals. When she is not at work you can find Nikita adventuring around Tasmania or spending time with family and friends. If you have story tips or events in the Arts and Events sector, please contact Nikita at nikita.mcguire@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0437 031 581
