UK's favourite dog-friendly festival DogFest is back and heading to Belvoir Castle this weekend
DogFest is back and is an absolute must for dog lovers and pet owners alike — expect a fun-filled day to treat yourself and your four-legged friend.
Taking place in the stunning Belvoir Castle on Saturday and Sunday, a day you and your dog will never forget awaits.
Taking place in the historic castle many will recognise as the filming location of The Young Victoria and The Crown, DogFest is the ultimate dog-friendly festival created for dogs and dog lovers.
Jam-packed with activities to guarantee a memorable day out and a snoozing pup all the way home, this festival sees more than 100 shopping stands and over ten fun-filled activities from flyball to dog diving, as well as food and drinks stalls serving everything from gourmet burgers to hand-baked cupcakes (especially for dogs).
Visitors will be invited to try their paws at non-stop have-a-go activities including an agility course sponsored by Seresto Flea and Tick Collar, Haybale Racing sponsored by Wisdom Panel, or take part in a 2k or 4k ManyPet’s Big Dog Walk through the stunning country grounds to raise vital funds for Dogs Trust.
You could also grab a rosette at the ManyPets Fun Dog Show, with categories including Best Rescue or Most Fabulous Fella.
Festival-goers will also be able to catch DogFest fan and television presenter Matt Baker’s Q&A where he shares his adventures and snippets of his life with the like-minded community at DogFest.
Matt Baker said: “Dogs have always played a huge role in my life, so I can’t wait to spend time at a festival created just for them and like-minded people. DogFest sounds like a great day out.”
Once owners and their dogs have had a go at the activities, they can pamper their pooches with some retail therapy from venders like Ruff and Tumble — practical and stylish solutions designed for wet dogs from drying coats to bed covers, or Paws London for some sophisticated doggy accessories.
Get expert advice from the industry’s leading professionals including behaviourist Adem Fehmi in the Behaviour Zone and Dr Scott Miller who will be attending for the first time, as well as a plethora of dog gurus provided by Dogs Trust at the Dog School.
Dr Scott Miller said: “I’m delighted to be at DogFest this year to offer advice to dog lovers both old and new. With the pandemic we’ve seen an increase in dogs being a welcome addition into people’s homes, but over this difficult time often the normal avenues of advice and support have been hard to gain access to. I’m really happy to be able to offer my expertise so dog lovers can ask their questions and gain invaluable knowledge so they can be the best pet owners they can be.”
There’s also the not-to-be-missed Instagram-worthy dog diving spectacle, delicious refreshments, and the ultimate retail therapy for you and your pup on offer.
For those interested in re-homing a dog in need, the official charity partner Dogs Trust will be hosting a Village Green where visitors can meet dogs looking for a new forever home.
Dogs Trust is also inviting local rescues with their new families to reunite with their rescuers so they can be updated on their new happy lives.
There is also an action-packed main arena with demonstrations from hugely-talented canines and trainers including TikTok sensation Lucy Heath, and Crufts Freestyle winner Nicci Hindson will be showing off her dancing dogs in the obedience ring and showcasing the latest tips and tricks to teach your pooch.
The brand new V.I.Pooch experience is perfect for those more discerning festival-goers, allowing you entry into the exclusive V.I.P area plus a goody bag, fast-track entry, complimentary refreshments including an ice cream for you and your dog, and a chance to meet paw-some celebrities.
DogFest takes place on Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26, at Belvoir Castle.
Go to DogFest's website for tickets and more information.
