HUNDREDS of pet owners and their canine companions took part in the first Muddy Dog Challenge in the New Forest.

More than 870 participants took part in the event at Breamore House on Saturday for animal charity Battersea.

So far, a total of £86,166 has been raised which will go towards the vital care of the thousands of dogs and cats that Battersea helps.

Battersea’s senior challenge events officer, Jasmine Monk said: “Thank you so much to everyone who came and took part in the Muddy Dog Challenge with us. This was our first time taking the event to New Forest and we are so grateful to each and every single person and dog who came along – whether they were taking part, volunteering or cheering their loved ones on.

"All the money raised will allow Battersea’s dedicated staff to care for the thousands of dogs and cats that need our help everywhere. We wouldn’t be able to do it without everyone’s support and we really kicked off our first event of the year in style."

Battersea’s Muddy Dog Challenge is one of the UK’s biggest obstacle courses where members of the public can take part with their dog.

On the day participants had to make their way through the doggy ball pit, slide through the mutt maze and brave the canine crawl in the mud.

This event was the first of nine taking place all over the UK this year.

 

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