100 dogs on best behaviour during walkathon

Doggy Walkathon promoted by Wanganui Vet Services WGP 17Jul17 - WALKIES: The dogs and owners fill the popular riverside walkway.

There were no fights - not even a snarl - as about 100 dogs and their owners walked beside the Whanganui River on a fine Saturday.

The event was a doggy walkathon, to raise money for guide dogs for the vision impaired.

"It was amazing. We've had so much positive feedback. I think it's going to become an annual event," Tui Gower said.

She and fellow Wanganui Veterinary Services staff member Suzan Timms-Lees organised the event to raise money for New Zealand Guide Dogs. It made nearly $700, exceeding their $500 target.

Dogs and owners registered from 10-11am on Saturday, and each registration received a goodie bag. The dogs and their owners then circulated the City and Dublin St bridges along the Whanganui River.

The walk took just over an hour.

There were dogs big and little, all on leads, and one golden retriever was dressed as a ballerina. The dogs enjoyed socialising, as did their owners.

The walk ended with a sausage sizzle, raffles and a draw for pet products and other prizes.

Dog owners and dogs queue to register for Whanganui's doggy walkathon. Photo/ Lewis Gardner

The doggy walkathon supports Whanganui resident Sandy McAllen, who looks after Abbott, a golden retriever who has "a beautiful temperament" and is a stud dog for guide dogs.

Ms McAllen will be running in Team Guide Dogs in the Auckland Marathon on October 29. To join the team she has to raise at least $1500 for Guide Dogs. Her total so far is $1191.

There is a strong need for guide dogs in New Zealand, with a 12-month waiting list.

It takes two years and about $30,000 to train one guide dog pup, Mrs Gower said.