Mud, sweat and (furry) ears – Dirty Dog Challenge is back at Ngāruawāhia

A mud-filled obstacle course awaits at the Dirty Dog Challenge in Ngāruawāhia on Saturday, June 26. Photo / Supplied

The Waikato District Council and Hamilton City Council Dirty Dog Challenge is back for 2021.

The popular event for dogs and their owners will be on Saturday, June 26 at the Ngaruawahia Christian Youth Camp.

In this unique event, people navigate a mud-filled obstacle course with their dogs.

Hamilton City Council Animal Control unit manager, Sue Stanford, says: "We're so excited to be able to bring this fun-filled event back in 2021 after unfortunately having to cancel last year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

"Dirty Dog has grown in popularity since it was introduced in 2018 and it's a great way for dog owners to get out and have some mucky fun with the four-legged member of the family. We encourage you to get in early and book your spot."

This is the third year the event has been held. In 2019 more than 300 dogs and their owners completed the challenge.

Waikato District Council's Animal Control team leader Tracey Oakes says: "We are proud to co-host this unique event, which has been really popular with dog owners.

"People come from all over the North Island to participate with their furry friends. What's even more special is that the money raised from this event goes towards a fantastic cause.

"It creates an amazing opportunity for the Waikato District Council Animal Control Team to get more dogs in our communities desexed at a subsided rate, which will help reduce the number of unwanted dogs in New Zealand. We can't wait to see you all on the day!"

All profits go towards helping animals in Hamilton and Waikato District's communities.

Tickets are $40 for one person per dog and are available through the councils' websites.

This event is open to dogs of all shapes and sizes, but they must be vaccinated and in good health. They will need to be kept on a lead through the course. Terms and conditions do apply.

• Dirty Dog Challenge: 12 noon, Saturday, June 26, Ngaruawahia Christian Youth Camp, $40 for one person and one dog. Second runner $20. 2.5km or 6km options. You may have only one additional runner and the second runner must be at least 8 years old.

For more information: www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz/dirtydog or www.hamilton.govt.nz/dirtydog