Furry friends from across Burton and South Derbyshire took part in the RSPCA's Bark in the Park event at the weekend in the soaring temperatures.
Staff at the Hillfield Animal Home, in Stretton, teamed up with South Derbyshire District Council to organise the amateur dog show, which was open to pet owners across the area. The event was held in Eureka Park, in Swadlincote, between noon and 4pm on Sunday, August 13, where visitors enjoyed the sunshine in what was a successful day, said a RSPCA spokesman.
The event also offered the chance for people who have adopted dogs from the animal shelter to get together, along with other pet owners.
The spokesman said dogs were happy to meet new friends on the day, as there were dozens of pets brought along, from tiny chihuahuas to German shepherds with many breeds of dog represented.
There was plenty to keep guests entertained throughout the day to with many enjoying watching the dog shows. There was also games and live entertainment, as well as several stalls from local businesses.
Dexter, the East Midlands Fire Dog, was also on hand to entertain guests who enjoyed learning about his work with the fire investigation team.
Alison Forrest, from the RSPCA, said: "The day went really well. We were very lucky to have had such good weather for it. A lot of dogs came out for the day and we had a great dog show. We had lots of stalls and a lot of people turn out to enjoy the day with us.
"Many of the dogs which came to the show were ones which we used to care for at the animal centre. It was nice to see some old faces and know that the animals that we helped to get adopted are now in loving homes and having fun."
Local veterinary practices and pet stores from the area were on hand at the event to offer expert advice to pet owners about how to best care for their animals.
The free event was organised to raise money for the RSPCA branch in Burton so that staff can continue to take in abandoned and needy animals. The money raised on the day has not yet been counted. The RSPCA also raises money through its charity shop outlet in High Street, Swadlincote.
A South Derbyshire District Council spokesman said: "This was the third time we had held Bark in the Park and once again it was a huge success. The weather was certainly on our side and we had an estimated 1,000 people of all ages attend on the day, with so many different breeds of dogs.
"We take great pride in our parks as natural assets and important community facilities, places where people can come together and enjoy a whole range of leisure and recreational activities such as Bark in the Park. We would like to thank everyone involved for making this year’s event one to remember."
