GALLERY: Every dog has its day

Pooches, mutts, pavement specials and pure breeds made up the mixed medley of the second annual Mutters Dog Day and charity dog walk that took place on 31 May at the Ball and All Driving Range hosted by the Mutters Social Canine Network.

Man’s best friend with their human counterpart came out in the dozens to enjoy the fun-filled day, with over 600 attendees passing through the gates.

The day was jammed-packed with a host of activities, ranging from the charity dog walk, dog and owner look-alike competition, balloon-and-spoon race and power jumping to the fancy dress competition, kept the pace going.

Apart from the main sponsor, Supreme Pet, the next biggest exhibitor was the South African Police Services Canine Academy that brought a part of its national canine display group to the event to raise awareness of the unit and the services they provide to the police – which now include two new areas of expertise – currency detection and biological body fluid detection.

The aim of the day was to have a great day out with the four-legged friends as well as to raise money for five charities namely: Pet Empowerment in Townships, Animal Instincts NPO, Husky Roaming, Santa Cause for Paws and The Highveld Horse Care Unit.

Event organisers, Dayle Mallinson, known as ‘Top Dog’, and partner Meryl Rosenberg, known as ‘Pack Leader’ were the driving force behind Mutters Day.

“We do it for the love of the dogs,” said Rosenberg.

“The day would not have been possible if it were not for the generous sponsorship of Supreme Pet and the amazing commitment from all 62 exhibitors that committed to the day; as well as to all the mutts, pooches, and people that turned out in support,” said Mallinson.

Mutters Social Canine network was formed as a sister project based on the successful neigh-Bours South African Equine Social Network as a community project.