Townsville Bulletin

NO LICKING SAUSAGE DOG KISSING

- LUCY SMITH

JEZZINE Barracks was packed with people, cats, dogs and even a horse for the Townsville Pet Expo yesterday.

Townsville Daschunds manager Melanie Juskiw ran a dog kissing booth at the expo to raise money for animal rescue charities.

“It’s a big success this year, it’s bigger than every other year,” she said.

She said the group held regular meet- up for lovers of sausage dogs. “We do a Christmas party, Halloween, we do Easter. Any chance to have a good get together where they dress up in costume pretty much, we do it,” she said.

Delta Therapy Dogs volunteers, including Diana Bourne, attended the expo to spread awareness of the not- for- profit.

“( We go to) aged care, hospitals and schools. The school program’s called Classroom Canine, where the children can read to the dogs,” she said.

“I think most people can agree that as soon as you pat any sort of animal you feel calm.”

Dog lovers were overwhelme­d with cuddling options at the expo, with Kira Maher taking a liking to the Hug a Pug stall.

“It’s been really, really good. I love seeing all the dogs so much,” she said. “I think I’ve spent more time hugging pugs. I think ( Pet Expos) are always really good and this one has definitely kept up the standards.”

 ?? Pictures: EVAN MORGAN ?? BIT SLOPPY: Melanie Juskiw gets some love from Ruby at the Kissing Booth; ( below from left) Mia Foley, 3, with Deano and Kira Maher, 17, with Charlie.
Pictures: EVAN MORGAN BIT SLOPPY: Melanie Juskiw gets some love from Ruby at the Kissing Booth; ( below from left) Mia Foley, 3, with Deano and Kira Maher, 17, with Charlie.

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