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As many of you know, we frequently visit the island of Cape Verde in Africa, a place close to our hearts. Sadly, the island is home to many stray dogs that desperately need help. They live without the care they deserve, and the island lacks the resources—facilities, funds, even basic medical supplies, and simple things like toys, collars, and leads to provide them with comfort. We’ll be returning to this beautiful island in November, and we’re determined to make a difference. We're planning to bring a suitcase full of much-needed items for "The Voice for the Forgotten Dogs of Sal, Cape Verde" – a charity that works tirelessly to care for these poor animals. If you can spare even £1, it would mean so much. Every little bit helps, and all donations will go directly toward filling the suitcase with supplies that could bring relief to these dogs. If you have any items you'd like to donate, please reach out to me. Anything, no matter how small, can make a big difference to these forgotten dogs. Let’s show them they’re not alone and we will help the dogs in Africa. https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/dogsincapeverde?utm_term=9nNk8qwjn

Our Experience at the North East Dog Festival: A September to Remember This past September, we had the pleasure of attending the North East Dog Festival, and what an unforgettable experience it was! Held at the stunning Northumberland venue, this festival was packed with fun activities, exciting dog demonstrations, and plenty of opportunities for both dogs and their humans to enjoy a day out together. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights from this fantastic event. A Warm Welcome for Dogs of All Shapes and Sizes From the moment we arrived, it was clear that the North East Dog Festival was a celebration of all things canine. Dogs of every breed, size, and personality were there, wagging tails and making new friends. The festival’s layout made it easy to navigate, with wide-open spaces and plenty of room for pups to roam, sniff, and explore. Exciting Demonstrations and Shows One of the major highlights of the festival was the impressive lineup of dog demonstrations. We were blown away by the agility and flyball displays, where dogs raced through courses with incredible speed and precision. The scent work demonstrations were fascinating to watch, showcasing dogs’ incredible sense of smell and their ability to track down hidden items. We also loved the canine obedience displays, which showed off the hard work and bond between handlers and their dogs. Fun Activities for Dogs and Their Humans The festival featured a range of interactive activities for dogs and their owners to try out together. There were “have-a-go” sessions where dogs could test their skills in flyball, agility, and even gundog activities. It was so much fun to see dogs trying out new challenges, and there was a real sense of camaraderie among participants. There was also a “doggy dash” event, which had everyone cheering as dogs raced to cross the finish line! Stalls and Shopping Galore The North East Dog Festival is also a haven for shopping, with a wide variety of stalls offering everything from high-quality pet food and treats to bespoke dog accessories and toys. We spent quite a bit of time browsing, and our furry friend came away with some new toys, a stylish collar, and, of course, some tasty treats. The vendors were friendly and knowledgeable, making it easy to find products that suit your dog’s needs. Expert Talks and Training Tips The festival wasn’t just about fun and games—it also offered valuable learning opportunities. Throughout the day, there were expert talks on topics like canine nutrition, behavior, and training techniques. We learned some useful tips on keeping our pup happy and healthy, and it was great to see so many dog owners eager to learn more about how to care for their pets. A Chance to Support Local Charities A big part of the North East Dog Festival is its commitment to supporting local charities and rescue organizations. Several local animal charities had stands at the event, and we enjoyed chatting with the volunteers and learning about their work. It was heartwarming to see so many people come together to support these wonderful causes, and we even had the chance to meet a few adoptable dogs looking for their forever homes. A Community of Dog Lovers What really stood out about the North East Dog Festival was the sense of community. It was fantastic to be surrounded by so many fellow dog lovers, sharing stories, advice, and plenty of laughs. The festival created an inclusive atmosphere where everyone, whether they were new dog owners or seasoned pros, felt welcome and part of a larger community. Final Thoughts on the North East Dog Festival The North East Dog Festival was a fantastic day out, filled with joy, learning, and plenty of tail-wagging fun. It’s an event we would highly recommend to any dog owner or dog lover. The organisers did a fantastic job of creating a well-organised, safe, and engaging environment for dogs and their humans alike. We can’t wait to attend again next year and make even more wonderful memories with our furry friends. Until then, we’ll be practicing some of those new tricks and activities we learned at the festival! If you’ve never been to the North East Dog Festival, mark your calendar for next year—it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Top Things to Do with Your Dog in York: York is a city that combines history, charm, and plenty of dog-friendly spots, making it the perfect destination for you and your four-legged friend. From picturesque walks and historic sites to cozy cafes and scenic river cruises, there’s plenty to keep you and your pup entertained. Here are some of the top dog-friendly activities to enjoy in York. 1. Stroll Along the York City Walls One of the best ways to take in York’s history is by walking the ancient city walls, which offer stunning views and plenty of room for your dog to explore. Although some sections of the wall may require dogs to be on a lead, it’s still a fantastic way to see the city from a unique perspective. The walk is about two miles long, but there are plenty of entry and exit points if you’d like to explore at your own pace. 2. Explore the Shambles and the Historic City Centre York’s historic city center is full of narrow, cobbled streets, including the famous Shambles, which is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. While some of the shops may not allow dogs inside, many are dog-friendly, and there are plenty of outdoor areas for you to enjoy with your pup. You’ll find water bowls outside many of the shops, and several eateries have outdoor seating where your dog is welcome to join you. 3. Relax at Rowntree Park Rowntree Park is a lovely spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic with your dog. With beautiful gardens, lakes, and plenty of open spaces, this park is popular among dog owners. There’s even a dedicated dog area where your pup can run around off-leash and socialize with other dogs. After a stroll, you can stop by the dog-friendly Rowntree Park Café for a coffee and a treat. 4. Take a Dog-Friendly River Cruise York offers several river cruise options, and the good news is that some of them are dog-friendly! The York City Cruises allow well-behaved dogs on board for free, so you and your pup can enjoy a scenic boat ride along the River Ouse. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s sights from the water and experience York in a unique way. 5. Visit the York Museum Gardens The York Museum Gardens is a beautifully landscaped area with over 10 acres of gardens and ruins to explore. Dogs are welcome on a lead, and the park is a fantastic place to wander among ancient ruins, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers. The gardens are also home to various wildlife, so it’s a great opportunity for your dog to sniff around and explore the surroundings. 6. Enjoy a Drink at a Dog-Friendly Pub York is known for its cozy pubs, many of which welcome dogs with open arms. A few popular dog-friendly pubs include: - The Minster Inn – A cozy pub with a great selection of local beers and a dog-friendly atmosphere. - The Phoenix Inn – Known for its welcoming staff and large beer garden, it’s a favorite among dog owners. - The Fossgate Social – A trendy spot that serves coffee by day and cocktails by night, with plenty of outdoor seating for you and your pup. 7. Head to Bishopthorpe Road for Dog-Friendly Shopping Bishopthorpe Road, affectionately known as “Bishy Road,” is one of York’s most dog-friendly streets. It’s lined with independent shops, cafes, and bakeries, many of which welcome dogs. Take a stroll down Bishy Road, pop into a few shops, and enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor seating areas where dogs are welcome. 8. Explore Clifton Ings for a Riverside Walk For a more nature-focused outing, take your dog to Clifton Ings, a beautiful flood meadow along the River Ouse. This open space offers plenty of room for your dog to roam off-lead, as well as scenic river views and abundant wildlife. It’s especially popular for early morning or evening walks, providing a peaceful retreat just a short distance from the city center. Final Tips for Dog Owners Visiting York - Always bring supplies: Ensure you have water, waste bags, and treats on hand, especially if you’re planning a full day of exploring. - Follow local rules: While York is very dog-friendly, some areas may have restrictions, so always check for signs and respect any on-lead rules. - Consider the weather: York can be rainy, so pack a towel or waterproof gear for your pup, especially if you’re visiting during the wetter months. York is a delightful city for dog lovers, with a wonderful mix of historical sights, parks, and dog-friendly establishments to explore. Whether you’re strolling the city walls, cruising the river, or enjoying a pint at a cozy pub, there are plenty of ways to make memories with your furry friend in this charming city. So grab the lead, pack some treats, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in York!