From young pups, to teaching old dogs new tricks, if you want some expert advice on helping your four-legged friend to put their best paw forward, come along to the Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Doggy Day Out.

The much-loved free event will be held at Ōmokoroa Sports Ground on Saturday, March 16, 10am -1pm, with this year’s theme being ‘Beach Day’.

For the second year in a row, world-renowned animal behaviourist and trainer Mark Vette will be sharing his knowledge at the event, together with training tips from some of Council’s animal services officers.

There will also be agility demonstrations, food and doggy stalls, pony rides, face painting, a photo booth and the hotly contested ‘best dressed’ competition.

The popular canine costume party has been growing year on year, attracting more than 1500 people and their pooches last year.

“It’s a great community event, which just keeps getting bigger and bigger. Mark Vette was a real crowd-puller last year and it’s awesome to have him join us again,” says Event Support Coordinator Vicki Lambert.

“While the emphasis is on fun, the Doggy Day Out is also an opportunity to give back to our dog owners in the District by providing free education, so they can understand their furry friends better and form an even stronger bond with them.

“We look forward to seeing an array of dogs — big and small — making a splash in their beachwear best!”

For all the details, head to westernbay.govt.nz/doggydayout