IT PROMISES to be a Glastonbury-style event for dogs – live music and plenty of other activities guaranteed to get tails wagging.

A stately home in the Hampshire countryside is set to host Dogstival, a two-day festival featuring a raft of attractions for pet lovers and their canine companions.

Billed as the first event of its type in the area, Dogstival will be held at Pylewell Park in the New Forest next May.

The event will feature dog display teams, more than 200 stalls selling dog-related items and an awards ceremony celebrating pets, people and businesses who have either demonstrated bravery or overcome challenges.

 

Organisers are making no bones about the scope of the dog festival.

A spokesman said: “Dogstival intends to treat your dog to the best day of its life, so expect canine activities such as an agility course, flyball and a treasure hunt.

“A grooming lounge will provide plenty of pampering, and water-loving dogs will be able to take a dip in the K9 Aquasplash.

“If your dog fancies a break from all the excitement they can relax in our dedicated Happy Hound ‘chill out and pamper zone’ for that perfect power nap.”

The event will be hosted by TV wildlife expert Chris Packham, who lives in the Forest.

He said: “I’m really excited to be part of Dogstival. With so much to see and do it’s going to be a fantastic day out for every kind of dog including Scratchy, my beloved poodle and the epicentre of my life.

“Pet owners will also get the chance to learn more about their dog – from their mental health to what’s in their bowl.”

 

The festival is being organised by New Forest-based Lighthouse Marketing.

Co-founder Richard Nowell said: “Dogstival is all about creating ‘the best day of a dog’s life’ and the event will be packed with things to watch and experience. It’s not just about a great day out. We want to use the show as an opportunity to talk about some of the issues faced in the Forest.”

Tickets cost £13.50 for adults and £7.50 for children, with under-fives going free. They are available at Dogstival.co.uk.

Possible lead singers:

  • The Pointer Sisters
  • The Corgies
  • Bow Wow Wow
  • Snoop Dog
  • Boney M
  • The Bloodhound Gang
  • Pitbull
  • The Beagles
  • Joe Cocker
  • Collie Parton
  • Jake Pugg
  • The Dachshund 5
  • Husky Springfield
  • Mongrel Jerry
  • Mastiff Attack
  • Spaniel Beddingfield
  • Bob Marley & Me
  • Mutt the Hoople
  • Bark Street Boys
  • Westie Life
  • Dingo Starr
  • Bruce Springersteen
  • Ocean Collar Scene
  • Muttley Crue
  • Iggy Pup
  • Scooby Doobie Brothers
  • Showaggywaggy