Mad Hatter's Dog Day to raise funds for charity

A MAD Hatter’s Dog Day is being held to raise funds for a charity which rescues and rehomes dogs, delivers kindness education to children and runs therapy dog programmes in schools.

Underdog International is a UK charity with a mission of ‘children helping dogs, and dogs helping children.’

By 2030, it aims to positively impact two million children and dogs worldwide.

The Mad Hatter’s Dog Day is being held at the three-acre Elmtree Canine Restreat, Waltham Abbey, Essex, on Saturday, September 20, from 12-5pm, with registration from 11am.

Among the events will be a fun dog show with categories such as best rescue, best trick, waggiest tail, best puppy and golden oldie.

Underdog International brings dogs into schools to help educate children

There will also be a hat parade where dogs and their owners showcase their best hats; dog demonstrations, including agility, scent work and gundog training, as well as a family zone with hat-making, crafts, a bouncy castle and stalls and food and market stalls featuring local businesses and artisan makers.

The event is jointly run by Haute Dogs, Underdog International and Elmtree Canine Retreat, which is providing the venue free of charge, ensuring that all proceeds go directly to Underdog International.

Admission is £3 for adults, free for children and dogs.

Nadine Kayser, founder of Underdog International, said: “Mad Hatter’s Dog Day is about bringing the community together – families, dogs, and supporters – for a day that’s joyful but also impactful.”

Tom Pipkin, of Elmtree Canine Retreat, said: We’re proud to host the event and open our doors to the community. With activities for all ages, it’s a chance to celebrate dogs, enjoy time together, and support important causes.”