Hundreds of dog owners, young and old,
stepped out in force to keep themselves and their dogs fighting fit.

On Sunday 16th October, Hatfield Park, Hertfordshire became the setting for ‘Paws in the Park’, an initiative sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition to raise money towards and to highlight the good work that The Royal Veterinary College’s Queen Mother Hospital for Animals do on a daily basis.

Owners were invited to bring their pets along to the dog walk and enjoy exercise together in an attempt to combat the rising issue of animal obesity; a condition that now affects over 50% of UK household pets.

Libby Sheridan, senior veterinary surgeon at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, commented on their recent findings, “Recent research has proved that people who diet and exercise with their pets lose, on average, more weight and keep the weight off for longer than those who diet alone. We feel sponsorship of events such as Paws in the Park is very important, as it helps to highlight that animal and human health and fitness go hand in hand. Paws in the Park is a perfect example of how owners and their animals can exercise, have fun and live healthier lifestyles together.”

The event was a great success with an excess of 350 owners supporting the event and bringing along their pets. Julian Bennet from television show ‘Queer Eye for the Straight Guy’ and his dog Lulu opened the event.