Raystede's all about dogs day returns with expert advice for dog owners

Dog owners looking to better understand their canine companions are invited to Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare's All About Dogs Day on Sunday 20 September.

Taking place across Raystede's beautiful 43-acre site in Ringmer, the free event is packed with expert talks, practical demonstrations and hands-on activities designed to help owners improve their dogs' health, behaviour and wellbeing.

Whether you're a first-time owner, have shared your life with dogs for years, or are thinking about adopting a rescue dog, there will be plenty to see, do and learn throughout the day.

Highlights include:

• Expert talks covering dog behaviour, body language and practical solutions to help with common behaviour issues owners find challenging.
• Nose to tail health checks, including weight checks and free microchip scanning.
• Try it out! activities, including pooch parkour, ACE freework, 'eyes on me' training and super sniffers, giving owners new ideas for enrichment, confidence building and training.
• Ask the expert, where qualified dog behaviourists and Raystede's Education Team will be available to answer questions and offer advice.
• Helpful resources to take home, including practical guides to support responsible dog ownership.
• Thinking of getting a dog? Learn more about adopting from Raystede, meet the team and find out about dogs currently waiting for loving new homes.
• Family trail and activities, following Koda the dog's journey from rescue to rehoming.

Visitors will also be able to browse Raystede's pet goods store and enjoy refreshments from the onsite dog-friendly café while spending time with fellow dog lovers.

Gemma Price, Head of Prevention and Education at Raystede, said: "Our All About Dogs Day is all about giving owners the knowledge and confidence to help their dogs live happier, healthier lives.

"Our recent research* has found that while four in five dog owners believe they can understand their dog's body language, only around a quarter could correctly identify some common canine signals. That's why we're passionate about helping people better understand what their dog is trying to tell them. Through practical talks, demonstrations and one-to-one advice, we hope visitors leave feeling inspired and equipped with simple ideas they can put into practice straight away.

"Whether you're looking for training tips, have questions about your dog's behaviour, are considering adopting a rescue dog, or simply want to enjoy a great day out with your canine companion, there's something for everyone."

The expert talks will run at 10.30am and 1pm, introducing dog behaviour and body language, followed by sessions at 11.30am and 2pm tackling common dog dilemmas.

Places are limited, so visitors are requested to sign up on the day. Please note that the talks are for humans only!

Entry to Raystede's All About Dogs Day is free, but tickets must be booked in advance.

For more information and to book, visit www.raystede.org/dogday.