I can hardly believe that it’s been 6 years since we launched Devon Loves Dogs during Heath Week! Every year we’ve done something special to celebrate and this year was no exception. Despite the rather showery forecast we started with a fantastic Waggy Walk led by Kim Strawbridge, Site Manager for the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust. Kim and her team have consistently run Waggy Walks with us right since day one, only stopping during the pandemic.
Despite having run a huge number of walks Kim ensures that each one is fun, infomative and unique and our birthday walk started from Uphams and took us on a journey through the plantation to find out all about the recent forestry work – of course the dogs weren’t bothered about that, they were all busy running around sniffing and exploring! We finished our walk in the Model Air Field where we were able to enjoy specially made cake for dogs (banana and peanut butter is always popular) and more traditional cake for humans.
We had a range of games and activites including temptation alley, sausage bobbing, a tennis ball game and a quiz for humans – dog themed of course! We were even lucky enough to be treated to an amazing display of training from Crufts finalist Lorna Syrett and her gorgeous collie Nora.
The rain held off and we had a great time, I’d just like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported us over the last 6 years; our members, waggy walkers, supporters and partners, working together to ensure we can all enjoy our favourite countryside dog walks now and in the future.