Canine capers to pedigree pooches

Having earned a reputation as the East of England’s answer to a summer Crufts – Just Dogs Live will be back for a bigger and better three-day event this summer.

A paws-itively great day out for the whole family, Just Dogs Live returns to the East of England Arena and Events Centre in Peterborough on July 7, 8 and 9.

The biggest event of its kind in the region, Just Dogs Live incorporates the prestigious East of England Championship Dog Show (a qualifier for Crufts with the best in show crowned on the Sunday) and a range of fun, family friendly handson events, competitions and displays for dog lovers of all ages.

Around 10,000 dogs (and their owners!) are expected at the event over the three days – which will include numerous trade stands, expert canine health and fitness advice, local and national dog welfare charities, and even the chance to get your dog microchipped.

Attractions already secured for 2017 include: Flyball competition Agility competition Companion Dog Show Displays by the Wonder Collies, the Essex Display Team and the East Anglian Staffordshire Bull Terrier display team.

The Kennel Club Scruffts heats, where dogs compete for the ultimate title of Best Cross Bred of the Year in a number of categories.

Trade stands selling everything from food and treats to bespoke gifts and pet photography.

Ian Strange, head of internal events at the East of England Arena and Events Centre said: “This year’s event is going to be even bigger and better than the last – with fantastic displays, lots of fun for the whole family, the opportunity for dog owners to get involved with a number of events, plenty of retail choice and of course, the Championship Dog Show – a forerunner for Crufts 2018.

“Just Dogs Live has wide appeal across the region and we are delighted that it has grown into a such a popular show at our all-weather venue. The emphasis is very much on family fun.”

This year, there are no advance tickets and admission is £10 per car. Visitors are welcome to bring along their dog for an additional £2, the proceeds of which will be donated to dog charities.

Gates open at 8am on all three days.

Headline sponsors for the event for the second year are Autarky, the complete natural dry food for active working dogs, made in Northamptonshire. Green Pantry, suppliers of holistic health food for pets, are also sponsoring the event.

Just Dogs Live originally ran for three years from 2009 until 2012, and has been in its latest successful format – incorporating the Championship Dog Show – since 2014.

For more go to www. justdogslive.co.uk