Dog Friendly Event: The Innocent Village Fete

While the Wag & Bone Show was happening in Windsor Great Park this weekend, there was also another event going on which was definitely suitable for dog-lovers. The second annual Innocent Village Fete (run by the folk who make the smoothies) got underway on Saturday.

Sadly I was thoroughly drenched by the time I made it there on Sunday but there was still plenty of only slightly damp fun to be had. Aside from plenty of gorgeous food, free smoothie samples, a farmer's market, disco and hoedown tents, live musical acts, eco-friendly product stands and ferret racing, there was also a village green which became a dog agility course three times a day.

While walking around I saw two gorgeous Golden Labs, a poodle, a Bichon Frise and a clutch of crossbreeds, confirming my suspicion that the all-day event was a brilliant destination for dog owners. Plenty of wide open green space and the chance to enter the agility meant that there was plenty for a well-behaved pooch to do.

While it did get crowded and busy at times, which owners of nervous dogs should take into account, the staff were friendly and approachable and likely to give good advice about the best times to attend with your dog.

Oh, and I've put up a photo of a ferret because even though we are Dogs Trust I thought it might be nice to give another pet the spotlight, if only for one post! You can see more photos from the event on Innocent's Flickr stream.

The Wag and Bone Show is back! Come join us at Windsor Great Park this summer

The popular and successful Wag & Bone Show is back for another year of fun, games and all things doggy. The even, on Saturday 2nd August in Windsor Great Park, helps raise funds for seven major animal charities and provides entertainment for all the family, both two- and four-footed members!

Former Blue Peter presenter Peter Purves provides commentary on the main events throughout the day, which is sponsored by Purina PetCare. As the owner of seven dogs, he has declared that "whatever the weather, I think The Wag & Bone Show is a winnner. So much to see, so much to do, I defy your dog not to have a wonderful day. And you might even enjoy it yourself, I know I shall!"

Pedigrees and crossbreeds are eligible to take part in loads of different events and The Blue Cross will be looking for this year's 'Top Dog', so if your dog has a melting expression, is a
loveable rogue or you are the best doggy family then enter the Top Dog competition. There are
10 categories at £2 per entry and you can register online at www.thewagandboneshow.com.
Scruffts, the fun dog competition run by the Kennel Club, caters specifically for crossbreeds and
only costs £1 to enter. You may even find yourself in the national final in November. Categories
like Child’s Best Friend and Golden Oldie ensure there is something for everyone at this year’s
Wag & Bone Show.

Other events and services (by no means an exhaustive list!) include:

• Dogs Trust Dogmobile with dogs looking for homes
• Obedience tests at Temptation Alley
• Doggie Water Bobbing
• Doggie Dash fitness tests (prizes for every entrant)
• Meet the Agony Aunt and Uncle for a Q&A on behaviour training and more
• Southern Golden Retriever Display Team performance
• Race between the charity mascots Barney (Blue Cross), Bat (Battersea) Carla the Cat (PDSA) Fred (Wood Green Animal Shelters), Rufus (KC) and Zippy (Dogs Trust). Come on Zippy!
• The Shopping Village
• PDSA free 10-minute dog 'MOT'

Tickets and information: 0871 230 5569 or online at www.thewagandboneshow.com
Ticket Price: Adult: £10 in advance (£11 on the door)
Concessions: £8 in advance (£9 on the door)
Children (5-16 years): £8 in advance (£9 on the door) Up to 4 years - Free
Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £25 in advance (£30 on the door)
Camping: Caravan and camping facilities are available onsite priced at £25 for two nights. Book
your site in advance by telephoning 01753 847900
Opening Hours: 10am to 5.30pm, Saturday 2 August 2008