Paws for thought as ‘Bark in the Park’ returns to ecos

After three hugely successful years it’s hoped that even more people will join the crowds, and maybe the sun will even make an appearance!

As well as a Fun Dog Show for competitive canines, there will be free health examinations by local vets, microchipping, the chance to take part in agility tests, a variety of stalls and refreshments, face-painting, a balloon modeller for the youngsters, and dog behaviourists to talk to to answer any canine queries.

Some of the VIPs (very important pooches) from Dogs Trust Ballymena will also be in attendance and staff will be on hand to offer advice on responsible dog ownership.

There will also be an opportunity to get a dog portrait and the ever popular doggy fancy dress competition is expected to steal the show.

Last year one of the contestants even came dressed as her own dog, so pretty much anything goes and expect to see the unexpected!

Other competition categories will include Most Handsome Dog, Prettiest Bitch, Best Rescue Dog, Best Senior Citizen, Cutest Puppy, Best Pedigree and Best on Show. Medals and prizes are kindly sponsored by Doggy Daycare. Jollyes have also generously donated items for the event.

This year for the first time we hope to achieve the largest Dog Walk in Ballymena with all participants receiving a certificate.

Ronnie Milsop, Campaigns Manager for Dogs Trust Northern Ireland, says: “We are all very excited about this year’s show and it promises to be a wonderful celebration of dogs, and a fantastically fun day for those with two legs and four.

“A big thank you to the Ballymena Ecos Centre for allowing us to host the event at their wonderful site again, to the local vets who have kindly offered their services for free and to all stall holders. We hope to see plenty of fun-seekers on the 11th!”

Louise Petrie, Duty Manager of the Ballymena Ecos Centre says: “Following the success of previous year’s events we are delighted to welcome Dogs Trust’s ‘Bark in the Park’ event to Ecos for a fourth 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!”