'Bark in the Park' back at the ecos centre

DOG owners and their canine companions will be heading to the Ecos Centre in huge numbers this Saturday, August 7, for the second annual 'Bark in the Park'.

Joint hosts, Ballymena Borough Council and dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, say ‘you’d be barking mad to miss the event’ which starts at 12noon.

After a really successful launch in 2009 they hope that even more people will join the crowds this year.

As well as a Fun Dog Show for competitive canines, there will be free vet checks, a variety of stalls and refreshments and face-painting and a bouncy castle for the youngsters.

Some of the wonderful canine residents from Dogs Trust Ballymena will be in attendance and staff will be on hand to offer advice on responsible dog ownership and to microchip dogs.

There will also be free bus trips from the Ballymena Ecos Centre to Dogs Trust Ballymena leaving at 1pm and 2pm.

Entry to the event is free and all are welcome whether accompanied by a dog or not!

Ronnie Milsop, Campaigns Manager for Dogs Trust Northern Ireland, says: “This promises to be a wonderful celebration of dogs, and a fantastically fun day for those with two legs and those with four.

“A huge thank-you to the Ballymena Ecos Centre for allowing us to host the event at their wonderful facilities once again this year, to the local vets who have kindly offered their services free for the day and to all stall holders. We hope to see plenty of fun-seekers on the 7th!”

Louise Petrie, Duty Manager of the Ballymena Eco Centre said: "Following the success of last year's event, we are delighted to welcome the Dogs Trust's 'Bark in the Park' event to Ecos for the second time.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for a fun family day out, with loads of competitions and activities for dog owners, their families, and, of course, the dogs themselves to enjoy!”.