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Irish Independent

A festival worth barking about: Dogitude returns to Meath farm with music stage and more

Causey farm in Girley, Fordstown will open its venue to all dog lovers for its fourth year running on Saturday, May, 24 and Sunday, May, 25 from 11.00am to 5.00pm. Marketing manager Peter Smyth said that visitors can look forward to 'action-packed days', with events tailored for dogs, dog owners, and dog lovers. One of the main attractions will be the return of the John Bowe Agility Show, where some of Ireland's best performing dogs will navigate a jumping and obstacle ring. Sheepdog trials and gundog exhibitions will offer a glimpse into the intelligence of some working breeds. However, Smyth said that there will also be experiences available for dogs to 'have a go', such as hale bale racing areas, attempting agility exercises, and even dog dock diving. There will also be a 'fun dog show', which Smyth said is all about 'showing up on the day and the judge liking you'. One of the biggest attractions at Dogitude is the daily 'dog meet-ups', which will offer scheduled slots for around 50 different breeds of dogs to meet with photo opportunities and social time. This includes a parade each day for golden retrievers. There is also a 30 acre field for dogs to be allowed off-leash for owners to play with their dogs, and a separate off-leash area for small dogs. All of the competitions and fun will take place while music plays from the 'Woofstock Music Stage', with crowd pleaser songs and traditional music included. The stage is located next to the food village and a guest speaker stage for health and wellness topics. There will also be 30-40 exhibitors present selling dog accessories, collars, leads, etc. ADVERTISEMENT 'My one bit of advice is to come for the day. Don't buy your ticket and not come until 2.00pm thinking three hours will be enough. You will get the best value the longer you're there. 'In previous years we had about 2,000 to 3,000 people attend and it seems to be growing in popularity,' Smyth said. Ticket purchases can be secured online, which includes parking and entry, along with the chance to partake in many activities.