Hundreds of dogs to flock to Staffordshire for annual event

On February 10, the annual Paws for Remembrance event will be held which provides an opportunity to explore the 150-acre site, in Alrewas.

Supported by PDSA, Paws for Remembrance also highlights the memorials that commemorate the service of animals including the Army Dog Unit memorial.

The Arboretum’s team of volunteers will be on hand to provide information about the Arboretum and the memorials that can be encountered during the walk and veterinary staff from the PDSA will be on site offering free MOT health checks for dogs, free general pet care advice, demonstrations of emergency pet first aid, and a range of pet care items for sale.

Happy Hounds High Street will host a selection of pet-related businesses from across the country offering a wide range of products and services, including pet portraits, pet clothing, and treats.

The Arboretum’s restaurant and coffee shop will be serving a range of hot meals and snacks. As with previous years, dogs will be allowed to enter the coffee shop with their owners, however they will be restricted to the large outdoor seating area of the restaurant.

Sarah Oakden, head of marketing at the Arboretum, said: “Since 2016 we have welcomed thousands of dog lovers and their four-legged friends to our annual Paws for Remembrance events and throughout the year to explore our dog walking route on the hardstanding paths around the site. The event raises valuable funds for the upkeep of the Arboretum through a £5 per per dog suggested donation.

"Dogs are welcome all year round to walk around the Arboretum and to visit the coffee shop for refreshments; however, we do ask that dog walkers use our designated route to ensure the comfort of all our visitors.”

To sign up for Paws for Remembrance, call 01283 245 100 or book online at thenma.org.uk/events-at-the-arboretum/forthcoming-events/paws-for-remembrance/