After missing last year we were excited to return to All About Dogs in Newbury. The event was, as we’ve come to expect well organised and despite some weather challenges, very well attended. It was a great opportunity for us to talk about the charity’s work and to meet many supporters who stopped by the stall, many with their dogs. As well as this, we know lots of people who weren’t aware of Schnauzerfest now are!
Chatting to people throughout the event, it was clear how much love for the dogs there is out there, but also how people are finding it increasingly tough in the economic environment we are in today. It makes every bit of support you give to Schnauzerfest even more precious when we know that times are so tricky.
We were very lucky to be joined this year by Jane and Dean Bostock, long time supporters of the charity and a very keen and skilled photography team. In return for a donation of their choice, visitors to the stall had their dogs’ photos taken, which were later available to download. The images are all stunning and include truly spectacular captures of the unique characters of the dogs. Dean and Jane barely took a break each day and they hugely contributed to the success of the event for the charity. We’ve already hooked them into the team for next year!
Our stall was stocked with new items and our popular ‘Take and Donate’ table worked especially well. Thanks to everyone who has donated items to help our fundraising over recent months we were able to offer a host of affordable things for visitors to the stall while raising money for the charity. It was deeply appreciated by everyone.
It was a fantastic weekend, and even through the rain showers, the howling wind, the warm sunshine, and even the hail which fell, people loved gathering to celebrate our shared love of dogs. We must make a special mention for the support given by our friends and neighbours Chiltern Pets who helped us to cling onto a gazebo at one point during Saturday! They were total stars and always make attending events that little bit more fun.
Finally, thanks to all our volunteers, not only those who attended, but to all in the lead up to it and for holding the fort during the busy weekend. It is not easy for a small charity like Schnauzerfest to attend big events and we could not do it without the help of our volunteers and supporters, thank you! And to everyone who came along, the money and awareness of our work which was raised, makes the hard work more than worth it, thank you.
