Goodwoof dog event: free activities, free celebrity story time sessions and free ‘Bark & Ride’ shuttle
Walkies! It’s time to click that lead on the collar and head off for one of the best four-legged friendly events on the south coast – Goodwoof at Goodwood on May 18 and 19.
With all activities included in your ticket, some celebrity appearances and the chance to compete in the doggy Olympics, this year is going to be memorable. We’ve asked the Goodwood Events Team to select their favourite activities to look forward to from Goodwoof presented by MARS Petcare.
The little extras
Of course, there’s lots of fun to be had while you’re there, but there are some unexpected extras that won’t cost an additional penny.
Have a go at teaching your old dog – or a young pup – new tricks, with expert dog trainers teaching your pooch to catch, fetch, stay and roll over.
Or how about a hound-dog hygge style mini retreat? Try out dog yoga (DOGA) reiki, dog massage and sound baths available on both Saturdays and Sundays. While you do need to book in for a session on the day, all activities, such as these are included in the price of your ticket.
A walk on the wild side
The brand-new Woodland Walk brings an element of tranquillity to the weekend. Find lots of shady spots to rest in, watch truffle hunts, speak to a pet psychic and find Snoopy, Woodstock and friends among the trees.
Meet this summer’s top (dog) Olympians
Paris 2024 might attract the limelight and the stars, but your very own Bradley Waggyins, Usain Bolt-For-The-Park or Steve O’Vet could be taking gold, silver and bronze at the Goodwoof Olympiad. Knock the spots of Dalmatians, let your cockapoo go cockahoop with joy, and find out if you own the best of British bulldog, in this champion challenge event.
See the sporting stars
Of course, if your furry friend isn’t quite top dog, you will still love watching the experts at play in the gun and sheepdog trials. Can you spot the star among the sea of talent, as they fight for top Goodwoof trophies?
Books, dancing and tasty treats
The Ministry of Hound is going to be blasting out some tunes, thanks to DJs Fat Tony and Rio Fredrika behind the decks as brothers Curtis and AJ Pritchard, while over in Literary Corner, dog-favourite Clare Balding will be joining Hugh Bonneville and Tracey Corderoy as they read some of their work to both two-legged and four-legged audience members.
Adding to the arty feel, cultured canines can stop by the studio were society snapper Dan Stevens will create a stunning black and white photo. Or learn to draw at the Pawtrait Artist tent, and make your pet into an old master.
Don’t forget to find time out for some very special treats for the pooches and their humans from various stalls around Goodwoof – bone appetit!
Time out
The Wellness Centre, presented by MARS Petcare, will see Dr Scott Miller passing on expert tips on dog body language, canine first aid, aging well and managing anxiety. It’s a balm for the soul for worried owners.
Location location location
Help Rover find his home from home with Goodwoof’s barkitecture display, with plenty of designer kennels ready for a home run …which will be your favourite?
As well as loads of fun for all the family, there’s a fundraising aspect to the weekend. All proceeds from the Bonham’s Auction, taking place on the Sunday, will go to the Goodwoof official 2024 event charity partner, Jai Dog Rescue.
Ready to book your tickets? Dogs and kids under 12 go free, parking is free with a complimentary ‘Bark & Ride’ shuttle. Don’t forget early bird tickets, saving over 15%, are available until Sunday 5 May. Find out more here.