Top Dog’s Day Out event returns for 10th Anniversary celebrations

LAST YEAR'S EVENT PHOTO

Dog lovers will be happy to hear that the Top Dog’s Day Out event is running again near Aviemore next weekend, for those keen to show off their pet’s talents. 

Now a regular in the Strath’s calendar of events, this popular day, organised by the Forestry Commission Scotland, The Highland Council Countryside Rangers, and K9 Training is back for its tenth anniversary year. 

Both experienced and inexperienced dog handlers will have a chance to put their trusty canine through its paces in a variety of activities including a wild and wacky obstacle and obedience course where, alongside normal obstacles, the dogs will have to walk through a line of sausages without eating any. 

Additional activities include the ever-popular sausage race, egg and spoon race and a send your dog away count. There will be lots of children’s activities as well, and interesting doggy themed stalls. There are rosettes and prizes too. 

Saranne Bish, The Highland Council Countryside Ranger for Badenoch and Strathspey North said: “We’re so excited about this year’s programme and it’s going to be our busiest, yet. Our Facebook page has been really popular, with its regular updates from Sue from K9 Training so we’re expecting a bumper crowd. We’re really looking forward to welcoming new faces, as well as our ever increasing band of regulars.” 

Lucy Ford Recreation Ranger for Forestry Commission Scotland added: “With so many people already enjoying taking their dog for a walk here, Glenmore’s the ideal place to hold the Strath’s biggest doggy event. Our fun packed programme and wonderful prizes will make it a brilliant day out for all dogs and their owners. 

“The Cairngorms National Park Authority have been great in helping us out, too - dogs are welcome in the Park all year round, although it’s particularly important to keep them under close control during the summer months to protect our special wildlife. We’ve devised our ‘Is your dog an animal’ self-led trail to test folks understanding of their dog’s behaviour.” 

Finally, in honour of a great friend and colleague, the Jim Gillies Memorial Prize will be offered to the dog that the organisers consider has given the most over the course of the event. 

The event, open to owners of all dog breeds and spectators, will take place on Sunday July 26th between 12 noon and 4pm at The Hayfield close to Glenmore Visitor Centre, eight miles east of Aviemore on the Cairngorm ski road.

Registration of dogs is from 12 noon on a first come, first served basis and costs £5 per dog.  

For further information please contact Saranne on 01479 873 914 email: saranne.bish@highland.gov.uk or the Forestry Commission Scotland, Glenmore Forest Park Tel: 01479 861 220.

16 Jul 2015