The Dog Cafe offers dog weddings, ‘barkday’ parties and a special menu just for pooches

FANCY marrying off your beloved pooch? Throwing them a “barkday” party? Then a quirky new cafe in Melbourne’s outer east will have you barking up the right tree.

THIS new cafe in Boronia is more than pet-friendly.

The Dog Cafe allows man’s best friend to sit at the table with you and enjoy a lactose-free puppacino while you sip on your latte.

It also has swimming pools, a sand pit, a movie room with beanbags (all for dogs), and lots of treats to keep their tummies full.

But it doesn’t stop there — you can book a “barkday” party or a doggie wedding to celebrate your pet’s milestones, with healthy food catered, a cake and take-home doggie bags.

Cafe owner Michelle Warren enjoys a cuppa with her dogs Louie, Kane and Chelsea. Picture: Nicki Connolly

Owner Michelle Warren has been a dog groomer for 32 years and opened A Touch of Class Dog Grooming Salon and School 18 months ago.

Since then she’s had the idea of a cafe, and for the past seven months chipped away at turning the space at the back of the salon into an eatery.

The cafe has been open for about a month, and Ms Warren said they had been busy, especially in warmer weather.

The cafe hosts “barkday” parties. Picture: Zoe Powell

It’s one of the only cafes in Melbourne that caters specifically to dogs.

“The animal industry is increasing all the time,” Ms Warren said.

“Dogs are like ‘furbabies’ now, it’s important for people to cater to their dogs as much as children.

“A lot of people don’t have children and dogs are their children so this caters to that.”

The cafe hosts events which can include healthy food and take-home doggie bags. Picture: Zoe Powell

Every good dog deserves cake. Picture: Zoe Powell

But there are rules — animals are not allowed in the indoor part of the cafe, and must be on leads.

Food isn’t made on site, and dishes are washed separately to keep hygiene in check.

Ms Warren said they were continually improving the cafe, with more cover for the outdoor area a priority.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep your best friend entertained. Picture: Zoe Powell

The cafe, at 120 Boronia Rd, is open Thursdays to Sundays, 9am-4pm.

Birthday parties are held on Sundays. Parking is available in the carpark near Boronia Library.

Ms Warren’s salon also offers doggie day care on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Details: thedoggiecafe.com.au, touchofclassgrooming.com.au or phone [phone].

Dogs will be spoiled for choice at this cafe. Picture: Zoe Powell

Lactose-free puppacinos are top dog. Picture: Zoe Powell