Dogs to get round of paws at festival

POOCHES across Dundee will be putting their best paws forward at this weekend’s Stobfest.

Refreshments and treats will be on offer as part of Westie Walk and Doggie Activities being held in Baxter Park this Sunday.

It is the first time activities for dogs have been included in the event’s programme.

Stobfest is now celebrating its third year with a range of new activities, including yoga, Zumba, poetry and ballroom classes.

The packed programme culminates in the Stobfest Gala Day on Saturday May 12.

Westie Walk organiser Alison Carr said it had proved popular throughout the UK for many years now.

The support worker at Boomerang Community Centre in Stobswell said she hoped the event would attract dog walkers in Stobswell and other areas of Dundee.

She said: “The Westie Walks have proved hugely successful around the UK. As far as I’m aware there hasn’t been an event like this in the park.

“It will certainly be the first time it has been Stobfest.

“It has been a few months in the planning. Initially folk were a bit surprised but thought it was a really good idea.”

Alison said she would like to attract more than 50 dog walkers to cover the mile trek of the outer circumference of the park.

She added: “Oscar Pet Food will be kindly supplying treats for the dogs on the day.

“The Baxter Park Cafe will also be open for refreshments for the owners.

“My two Westies will be there, Archie and Charlie, but the event is open to all dogs, not just Westies.

“There are so many great events incorporated into going on during Programme.

“We thought this would be a great chance to get local dog owners and people further afield involved.

“The forecast is looking promising — surely we can’t get any snow in May!

“Anyone interested in coming along should meet at the Pavilion around 10.45am on Sunday.”

This year’s Stobfest festival will start on Friday with an art exhibition with cheese and wine in Arthurstone Library.

For more information, contact the library on 01382 438881. the Stobfest

Craig Smith with Lorraine and Colin Clement and Alison Carr with Westies Archie and Charlie.