Celebrate National Dog Day!
On Monday, August 26 the UK will be celebrating National Dog Day 2019, a day dedicated to celebrating all breeds, pure and mixed.
Dogs help us in so many ways – from getting our daily exercise to being a source of company, assisting people with disabilities, keeping us safe, and just being there when we return home from a long day.
The day aims to:
- recognise the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year, either from public shelters or rescue centres
- honour the dogs who work tirelessly in jobs to help others – whether in law enforcement, police dogs or disposal units
- remind us of how much joy our own pet pooch brings to us and our families.
Pic: Rex/Shutterstock
National Dog Day is an opportunity to indulge your dog in special treats, fun activities and adventurous outings to show them just how appreciated they really are.
Looking for inspiring ways you can spoil your dog this year? The makers of Canagan, the grain-free pet food for dogs, have listed some enjoyable activities you can do together to mark the special day.
Scenic walking routes
A change of scenery does wonders for your dog. Unfamiliar environments provide dogs with mental and physical stimulation which will alleviate boredom and encourage them to socialise with new people and dogs.
Whether you opt for a beachfront stroll, a woodland wander or a highland hike here are the best walking routes the UK has to offer which will keep your dog fit and healthy.
Head for the beach
Sandymouth Beach, Bude. Pic: iStockphoto
Sandymouth, Cornwall
The huge expanse of sandy beach at Sandymouth in North Cornwall welcomes dogs all year round. Easily accessible with good parking and facilities, this is a great spot for a long leisurely walk or a fun-filled day at the beach. Make sure to stop by the beach’s dog friendly café for a well-deserved treat.
Berrow, Somerset
The seven-mile stretch of sand at Berrow in Somerset offers dogs the opportunity to explore a large expanse of beach, meaning they can run around as much as they like. From splashing around in the sea to playing with their favourite toy, your dog will absolutely love it.
Rhossili Bay, Gower
Named by TripAdvisor as one of the best beaches in the UK, and the 11th best beach in the world. Head off on this easy four-mile walk and you’ll find yourself in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the first location in the UK to be awarded this accolade.
The sandy beach is backed by sand dunes – and it is dog-friendly all year round.
Pic: iStockphoto
Explore the countryside
Hayling Billy Trail, Hampshire
A luscious, green, five-mile walk in a quiet corner of Hampshire. Walk along the old railway line and enjoy the beautiful wildlife the route has to offer.
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Your dog will be sure to enjoy exploring the 3,800 acres of natural woodland at Clumber Park. The relaxing walk takes you through fields and woodlands in some of the quieter corners of the estate.
Take in views over the lake before heading to the dog-friendly café on route, Central Bark. There are dog toys to play with and water bowls for your dog post-walk, the perfect pit-stop for you both.
Carsington Reservoir, Derbyshire
Carsington Reservoir. Pic: iStockphoto
A glorious walk around one of the most scenic stretches of water in Derbyshire. This is a popular route for dog owners who can enjoy the breadth of wildlife in the nature reserve. Next to the circular, 8.3-mile footpath awaits The Miners Arms, a pub where you and your dog can stop by for a range of tasty doggy snacks.
Henry Dove, Veterinary expert for Canagan, said, “Walking is so beneficial for dogs and humans together. It gives them mental stimulation and allows them to let off steam; it reinforces the bond between dogs and their owners; and can lead to better behaviour at home.”
Where to stay with your dog
Most owners already know that finding a hotel that can cater for you and your dog can prove tricky. Not only do you want your dog to be comfortable and looked after, but you also want them to feel just as pampered as you do. From dedicated spa treatments to afternoon teas and treats, below are the best hotels worth visiting with your dog.
The Fish Hotel, The Cotswolds
Treat your pet to a specifically-designed afternoon tea menu accompanied by a dog-friendly beer in the bar. When you return to your room – equipped with cosy beds and dog bowls – they’ll receive a special towel so they can enjoy a lavish bath after exploring the breathtaking countryside around the hotel.
Hare and Hounds, Tetbury
Start the day with a pet-friendly sausage breakfast in the hotel’s pet-friendly lounge where you can both unwind before exploring the dog-friendly pubs and gardens in the heart of Gloucestershire.
The Lawrence Hotel, Padiham
Taking dog-friendly to the next level, if you want somewhere to really spoil your dog, The Lawrence Hotel is the UK’s best retreat. From pup-icures to pawsecco to doggy dinners and play dates on offer, your dog can slip into their very own fluffy gown with a personalised towel and relax in their dog bed after a long day of walking.
Events just for your dog
Research from Money Expert found that owners love to splash out on their dogs as much as they do on friends and family. If you want to surprise your dog for National Dog Day,here are the best doggie events to really spoil them!
Paws in the Park
Paws in the Park seeks to bring the dog world together with a host of dog-friendly events. There are amazing agility, guide and gun dog displays, have-a-go sessions spanning flyball, search and rescue and much more. There are also competitions and an open-to-all dog show.
Kent Showground, Detling, Kent – September 13-15
Flyball is fun! Pic: iStockphoto
All About Dogs
Organised by dog lovers for dog lovers, All About Dogs is a series of dog shows held across the UK. Attractions for you and your dog to get involved in include fun dog shows, have-a-go activities such as flyball, agility and gundog displays, experts handing out advice and a slew of stalls to treat both you and your pet.
Trinity Park, Ipswich, Suffolk – September 28-29
National Pet Show
One of the UK’s biggest pet events returns to the NEC this November with celebrities such as Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick and Michaela Strachan in attendance. Head straight for the Dog Zone where you and your dog can attend talks, grooming demos and workshops.
NEC Birmingham, November 2-3
Henry Dove, Veterinary expert for Canagan, said, “There are so many fun activities to do with your dog. The more time you spend with them doing these activities the greater the bond becomes between you – in the long term leading to both of youbeing more content.
Take them to a dog show or a sponsored walk and they will have fun – and so will you!
“If you are going somewhere fun, then go prepared. Ensure dogs are allowed, ensure it’s safe and ensure a good recall. Go prepared with water and treats!”
Whether you’re looking for an exciting day out, a night to remember or a weekend away, there are plenty of things to do with your dog that will make them feel pampered and extra special.
Look out for an inspiring doggy Real Life story in My Weekly issue dated September 3!
Sarah Proctor
I've worked on a variety of regional newspapers and national magazines. My Weekly and Your Best Ever Christmas are fantastic, warm-hearted brands with an amazing, talented team. I'm a sub-editor and particularly love working on cookery, fiction and advice pages - I feel I should know all the secrets of eternal life, health and happiness by now, but hey, we all need that regular reminder!
