‘Jog the Dog’ event coming to Waitakere

Henderson Park will be going to the dogs on Sunday 21 September for Waitakere City’s inaugural “Jog the Dog” event.

The event takes place at 10.30am at Henderson Park (on Wilsher Crescent). Parking is also available at the Corban Estate Arts Centre (entrance off Great North Road).

Supported by Waitakere City Council, Jog the Dog offers dogs and their owners the opportunity to participate in a fun run (or walk) to raise money for dog charities, including Waitakere’s Animal Welfare Centre, which desperately needs more doggy beds.

There are two courses – 2kms and 4.5km – featuring the scenic Opanuku Walkway bush track, suburban streets and the odd grassy bits.

The day will be packed with fun activities and free giveaways, including doggy loot bags for all entrants, free doggy Warrant of Fitness vet check, competitions, training club demos, fly ball demos, live music, Dog Café and a puppy crèche (a fenced-off area where your puppy can meet others and older (well behaved) dogs to build up their "social skills").

Jog the Dog creator, Pip Fleming, says: “Unfortunately all dogs have been given a pretty bad rap lately. We want this event to show how responsible dog ownership improves dog behaviour. We'll have some expert people demonstrating how children should approach dogs and how to train your dog not to bark incessantly or yank your hand from your wrist when you walk them.”

Henderson Ward Councillor, Annette Fenton, will be participating in the event with her dogs Max and Andy, and advises a pre-event build up.

“If you or your four-legged friend haven’t been for a walk or light jog in a while, it would be a good idea to start taking regular walks.”

For those who would like to participate but have no dog of their own, Waitakere City’s Animal Welfare Unit will have some well-mannered, homeless pooches at the event who would love to go for a walk or run.

Entry costs $15 for one dog or $20 for one or more. To register, phone Pip at Event Creators on 378 2190, email eventcreators@xtra.co.nz or visit www.petsonthenet.co.nz

© Scoop Media