Thousands descend on Burley Park as Dogstival returns to the New Forest

THOUSANDS of dogs and their owners descended on a Forest village for a celebration of man’s best friend.

Dogstival, held at Burley Park in Burley – back in the Forest after two years – attracted around 8,000 visitors along with an estimated 13,000 dogs who enjoyed arena displays, have-a-go activities, live music and plenty of treats.

First held in 2019 in Pylewell Park, Lymington, it later moved to Burley Park in 2021 before spending two years at Broadlands, Romsey.

Organiser Richard Nowell told the A&T: “It was lovely being back in the New Forest – Burley is a wonderful venue – and the area is a fabulous dog-friendly destination.”

Co-organiser Domine Nowell added: “It went brilliantly. There were lots of happy dogs and people, with highlights being the swimming and splash pools, which are always very popular.

“The aim of the event is to create a dog’s best day. There were a lot of dogs getting really spoilt with treats and pupachinos.”

The Naturo main arena included performances from the Paws For Thought Display Team, Crufts champion Jodie Forbes and terrier and lurcher racing.

New for this year was the Battle of the Sniffers scent work competition, which saw breeds battle it out to be crowned ‘top sniffer’.

Visitors could get involved with a dog show, sports day, breed meets, flyball and agility courses, as well as diving and splash pools.

The Hound Dog music stage saw a mixture of performers entertaining the crowds with soul, blues, Motown, folk, country and pop classics while the Muddy Paw Tavern was stocked with dog beer and treats.

This year’s chosen charities were Dogs Trust and Pets As Therapy.

Dogstival is set to return to the village next year.

For more pictures and to buy images, visit: photos.iliffemedia.co.uk/p311325632