The first Dogstival will be guest-hosted by TV naturalist and New Forest resident Chris Packham at Pylewell Park, near Lymington, on 18th-19th May.
Organiser Richard Nowell, who with his wife Domine also runs the Lymington Seafood Festival , has picked as charity partners the disability assistance helpers Canine Partners , Waggy Tails Rescue , and welfare group Hampshire Hounds.
Attractions will include spectacular four-legged displays in the main arena, a specially built stage to explain dog behaviour, have-a-go activities, and more than 200 stalls selling everything from dog gifts to food and drink for the owners.
There will also be talks and advice from Mr Packham and experts from the national park authority and Bird Aware Solent.
The New Forest has a 34% dog-ownership ratio, according to a New Forest District Council census in 2016
Entry is priced at £13.50 for adults, £7.50 for children aged 6-16 years, and under-6s go free. Tickets are on sale now at www.dogstival.co.uk
Read more at https://www.advertiserandtimes.co.uk/dogstival-names-charities