About 50 pooches dragged their owners to the Oamaru Showgrounds yesterday for the town’s first dog expo, organised by the North Otago Dog Training Club in association with the Waitaki District Council.
The event was originally scheduled to be held in November, but was postponed after heavy rain. As well as helping to boost awareness and membership of the club, the event aimed to promote responsible dog handling.
The day included a water retrieve activity, fancy dress competition, a best lead class and agility demonstrations.
Council staff were at the event to answer questions about bylaws and which parts of the district are available for dogs on and off leashes, and offered advice on the dog registration process and responsible dog ownership.
North Otago Dog Training Club president Allen Booth said part of responsible ownership was ensuring dogs were well-trained.
"It’s important because it’s the welfare of the dog. You need to be able to handle them properly when they are being walked on the street or on the beach."
