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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Karen Rockett

Get fit and filthy at Battersea Dogs Home muddy race fundraiser events

Battersea Dogs Home is hoping to clean up with a series of filthy fundraisers.

The charity is launching 2.5km and 5km Muddy Dog Challenges next month, with humans and pets invited to get stuck in.

A Battersea spokesman said: “Participants will face all kinds of wet and muddy obstacles including the doggy ball pit, canine crawl and muddy mayhem.

“The event celebrates that irreplaceable bond between humans and their four-legged friends.”

Events will be happening across the country until October. You can enter as a dog and human team or on your own — children can also sign up.

The race is designed for you and your pet to have a great time while getting some exercise (Dave Bird)

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The charity says that by taking part you will be helping it provide love and care for thousands of lost, abandoned and unwanted dogs and cats.

Pet food company Purina has served up some useful advice for owners who want to start running with their dogs.

It says it is important to build up slowly. Just like ­humans, dogs need to get used to running.

Start with a short, ten minute run somewhere familiar for your pet and increase your distance gradually over a number of weeks.

Your dog should be panting but not winded. And do not get so out of puff that you cannot issue commands.

Dogs will become dehydrated before they are exhausted so carry water on long runs. And clean your pet’s paws after a run, checking for any cuts.

Pet owners ought to be aware that they will get dirty and muddy at the event (Dave Bird)

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A dog expert at Purina said: “Running helps prevent obesity, helps you get fit and can increase stamina. It’s even been shown to lift your mood.

“What’s good for you is also great for your dog — it will also help them to lose weight if their body condition isn’t ideal, build muscle and keep healthy.

“Keeping your dog fit and healthy is the best way to avoid expensive vet bills in the future.

“It’s also fantastic for your dog’s mood — most dogs are built to run.”

Muddy Dog Challenges will take place in Exeter, Windsor, Cheltenham, Nottingham, Manchester, Tunbridge Wells, Newcastle and Leeds.

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