DOGSTIVAL – New forest festival for dogs & dog-lovers is all paws go for september

Dogstival, sponsored by Purely Pets, is preparing to take place following the easing of Government Covid-19 guidelines. The two-day festival dedicated to dogs and dog-lovers, is one of the New Forest’s leading events and will be held on Saturday 5^th and Sunday 6^th September at Burley Park.

With pubs and outdoor attractions opening their doors in recent weeks, and now with permission to stage live performances, the news will be a boost to the local business economy and provide the public with safe, well managed entertainment that many have been missing during months of lock-down.

The event will be run by Lymington based Lighthouse Marketing who are currently working closely on plans, risk assessments and guidelines with New Forest District Council and Hampshire Police.

Dogstival will host thousands of dog lovers each day at the stunning Burley Park. With acres of space to explore, social distancing is easily managed and there will be hand sanitiser stations across the event. Tickets are sold in-advance only to provide ‘track and trace’ but also to manage capacity to ensure social distancing guidelines are met.

Launched in 2019, Dogstival will host all manner of canine activities, shows and demonstrations to give dogs of all breeds and sizes the best day out they could wish for.

Commenting on Dogstival, Richard Nowell from Lighthouse Marketing said:

“We are obviously delighted to start planning for Dogstival and look forward to be working with Hampshire Police and New Forest District Council with our preparations. The events industry is diverse and whilst large scale music festivals did not have a chance of being held this year there are many other types of events that can take place safely and in line with Government guidelines.

“Being outdoors and with acres of space to socially distance, we are confident in the level of public safety. We will also be investing in a wide range of hygiene measures plus on-site cleaning teams across both days.”

“In testing times, we are delighted to have retained the support of our headline sponsor Purely Pets, one of the UK’s leading pet insurance specialists. They have been understanding during a long and difficult process and totally behind us, clearly the sort of people you’d want insuring your pets.” Said Nowell.

Commenting on sponsoring Dogstival, Ross Hallifax, Director at Purely Pets, comments:

“Over the last few months, the positives to dog ownership have been highlighted more than ever. Our four-legged friends have provided support and comfort for many owners and have probably never been walked more in their life! That’s why it’s fantastic news that Dogstival can go ahead, in a controlled environment, and we can continue to celebrate our canine friends! The show is not only a ‘paw-fect’ day out, but a great opportunity to find out more about our dogs and how to keep them happy and healthy. Whether a loyal companion or the centre of a family, we understand the important role they play in people’s lives and as specialists, our dedicated team can be trusted to offer the right insurance for owners and their pets alike.”

Dogstival is set to host a fantastic weekend of entertainment. The Purely Pets Main Arena will see the fabulous Rockwood Display Team, working dog demonstrations with Stuart Barnes, the Dogstival Flyball Trophy with regional teams taking part and a Fun Dog Show.

There will be activities for dogs to try, such as scent work, flyball, working dog scurries and an agility course with a difference that takes into account Government guidelines on handling dogs.

TV vet Dr Scott Miller will host the Healthy Hound Den. Scott will be joined by leading New Forest Vet Physio Carlie Dixon and surgeon Michael Hamilton of Hamilton’s Referrals, a former colleague of the SuperVet Noel Fitzpatrick.

The Dog House Behaviour Stage will be hosting talks and demonstrations on all sorts of training and behaviour tips for owners. Led by Natalie Light and joined by guests across the weekend, Nat will be helping you understand more about the relationship between you and your dog.

In addition, a giant K9 ‘dog diving splash pool’ will be on hand for dogs that love the water. Owners can also try stand up paddle boarding with the dogs, sessions to be booked in advance. With over 150 stands selling everything a dog could wish for, plus some great food and drink for humans, live music and a vintage funfair complete the entertainment.

“The event will hopefully provide a needed boost to the New Forest tourism economy with dog owners from across the South Coast expected to attend with many booking accommodation to make a weekend of it and enjoy everything else the New Forest has to offer.” Said Nowell.

“Finally, a word of thanks to the team at Go New Forest, led by Anthony Climpson OBE who has provided his experience and weight to discussions that have led to our events being given the green light. As in previous years we look forward to working closely with GNF to help promote the destination and support local businesses.” Concluded Nowell.

Tickets for Dogstival are £13.90 for adults or £8 children aged 6-16yrs. Under 6’s go free. Concessions are available. Visit Dogstival.