Western Bay of Plenty’s much-loved annual Wander Dog series is this summer offering three walks around the district and a Doggy Day Out party, where pets are encouraged to don their best beachwear.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council team animal services team leader Peter Hrstich says it’s exciting to be gearing up for the seventh year of Wander Dogs.

“The four-legged residents of WBOP deserve to be celebrated this summer, and so do their owners.

"Our get-togethers are not only fun, but they’re educational, and people walk away with a smile and tidbits of new information on how to get the best from their kūri (dog).

“This year, we hosted two winter walks for the first time in Katikati and Te Puke, so it was a no-brainer to bring back the summer series and build on the positive events we hosted in the colder months.”

Peter says the walks give dogs and their owners a chance to socialise with other animals in a safe environment, and for owners to pick up great tips in the information session held beforehand.

“The brief power-up talks before the walk begins gives owners a chance to ask any burning questions of our teams who have a wealth of knowledge about dogs and their behaviour.

"In the past, we’ve covered topics like dog park etiquette and being aware of other kūri around you.

"If you’ve got a question, here’s your chance to ask.”

The first walk is on Saturday, December 9, at Puketoki Reserve in Whakamārama.

Dogs and their humans are to meet at 9.30am for a quick Q&A session before setting off at 10am.

The series returns on Saturday, February 3, at Te Puna Quarry Park, then on Saturday, March 2, at Anzac Bay in Waihī Beach.

Q&A sessions will begin 9.30am with the walk to follow at 10am.

“We’ll also be letting our hair down and letting our tails wag on Saturday, March 16, at Ōmokoroa Sportsground for our favourite event of the year: Doggy Day Out,” says Peter.

The costume party is from 10am-2pm. Dogs and humans – and humans without dogs too – are invited, with something for everyone to enjoy – dog education, stalls, music and competitions all on the agenda.

For more information, visit: https://www.westernbay.govt.nz/