Entertainment
20 July, 2025
Pooches take centre stage
MORE than 750 dog lovers and their furry companions descended on Cazalys for the tail-wagging fun of the Top Dog 2025 event, raising close to $11,500 for RSPCA Cairns in the process.
The day featured a line-up of adorable and hilarious competitions, with 108 dogs vying for titles in categories such as dressed to the K9s, scruffiest pooch, dynamic duo, happiest hound, prettiest puppy, best trick and the ever-popular dachshund dash, which saw 24 sausage dogs racing for the title of fastest weiner in FNQ.
Taking out the top honour of Cazalys Top Dog 2025 was Mollie, a dancing chihuahua who dazzled the crowd with her moves and heartwarming connection with her owner, Gabrielle.
Another crowd favourite was the scruffiest pooch competition, where Herman, a loveable “big boi” with plenty of charm, claimed first place.
Outside the arena, 16 local businesses added to the festive vibe with stalls offering pet accessories, gourmet dog treats, handmade crafts and community services.
Families enjoyed paw print keepsakes, raffle prizes and sweet and savoury bites, while Tropical Photobooths helped capture picture-perfect memories.
Organiser Danielle Riethmiller said she was overwhelmed by the turnout and generosity.
“We are blown away by the support from our community. Seeing so many people and their dogs come together for such a great cause is truly heartwarming. Thank you to everyone who attended, our sponsors, stallholders and volunteers who made the day a success,” she said.
After raising $9000 at last year’s event, organisers set an ambitious $10,000 goal for 2025. That target was well and truly surpassed, with the final total hitting $11,365.70. Every dollar will stay local, supporting RSPCA Cairns’ emergency boarding, vet care, desexing programs and animal ambulance services.
Cazalys has already confirmed the much-loved community event will return in 2026, promising more tail-wagging fun.
For more photos and highlights, visit the community page at Cazalys’ website.
