Dogs' Day Out barking fun (+pics&video)

There was plenty of barking and wagging tails as hundreds of dogs came together at the VETPLus Dogs' Day Out fundraiser, held at the Scion Research Centre today .

More than 200 dogs registered for the walk through the Whakarewarewa Forest, with
all proceeds from the day going to the Rotorua SPCA.

Local Phil Skinner was there with his dog Lily.

He said he came to Dogs' Day Out every year and volunteered at the SPCA.

"They are an important organisation as they look after animals that can't help themselves."

Image 1 of 12: Kayden Nairn, 6, and Pito

Also enjoying the day was Rotorua MP Todd McClay, who said he thought there was a good turnout.

He attended with his dogs Benny and Rascal, "who are being very well-behaved today, which is unusual".

As a patron of the Rotorua SPCA he said it was good to see a huge number of responsible dog owners come along.

"The SPCA has great volunteers and this is good recognition of the work they do."

Rotorua SPCA centre manager Sue Kennedy said it was lovely to see the community support.

"The weather has been on our side too."

Ms Kennedy said the day had a demonstration from the New Zealand police dog handlers and fun competitions including an owner/dog look-alike event.

There was also a parade of three current SPCA dogs, George, Marley and Bonnie, who are available for adoption.

"It reminds people to consider adoption next. Come by the shelter - we have all creatures large and small," said Ms Kennedy.

Jenni Hill, business manager at VETPlus, said it was neat to see dog owners and their families out to support the SPCA.

"Someone has got to be an advocate for the animals. We're really proud of our partnership with them."

VETPlus is the exclusive veterinary partner of the Rotorua SPCA.