"We have been shown in a bad light when actually our pound is very efficient. This day was about showing the community that we are very proud of our animals and work very hard to care for them," he said.
"It was a fantastic way to balance out the negative crap we have been getting."
Several stalls surrounded the park offering tips on dog care, tasty treats and photo shoots.
Ms Fraser said lots of people lined up for the photo booth so they could get portraits of themselves and their dog.
"It was great and very popular."
The winning team of the regional Young Enterprise Scheme, Ruff Tuckers, sold their 100 per cent natural treats to the dog lovers.
Part of the park became a premiere modelling venue, as a Hawaiian-themed doggy runway was created.
Shortland Street stars Ria Vandervis and Amelia Reid-Meredith, who play Harper and Bella, were given the task of judging the event.
"They are both avid dog lovers and were absolutely swamped by their excited fans," Ms Fraser said.
The categories included best-dressed dog, most like their owner, greatest personality and shiniest dog.
Hawke's Bay Dog Agility Club also made an appearance demonstrating obedience and agility courses to the crowd.
The Napier City Council's animal control team were mixing and mingling throughout the day answering any questions on what dogs they adopt, how to adopt dogs and dog behaviours.
A protest against the dog pound staff member resigning took place at the time of the event but Ms Fraser said the team were not interested in supporting any negativity at Bark Island.
"This was a hugely positive day out for everybody involved and everyone was in a wonderful mood, it was awesome to see," she said.
"We have had nothing but positive feedback and are thrilled with everyone coming and supporting such a fabulous day."
Ms Fraser said the event was a great success and council staff were just working out how to do it all again.
"We just need to see how often we run the day, whether we do it yearly or twice yearly, as it was so well supported."
