Waggy Tail Walk and Dog Show Set to Return to Eglinton Park for Ayrshire Hospice
- Ayrshire Daily News
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Hundreds of dog lovers are expected to descend on Eglinton Park in Irvine this summer as the Ayrshire Hospice Waggy Tail Walk and Dog Show returns for another tail-wagging day of family fun and fundraising.
The popular event, proudly sponsored by Vets for Pets Ayrshire, will take place on Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 10.30am until 2.30pm at Eglinton Park.
The annual fundraiser celebrates the special role dogs play in people’s lives while raising vital funds to support Ayrshire Hospice and the care it provides to patients and families across Ayrshire and Arran.
Organisers are encouraging dog owners, families and community groups to come along and enjoy a packed programme of activities, with the canine members of the family taking centre stage throughout the day.
One of the highlights will be the popular Dog Show, where entrants can compete in up to three categories for the chance to win a rosette and take their place on the winners’ podium.
This year’s categories are:
• Kids’ Best Friend
• Fabulous Fella
• Loveliest Lady
• Coolest Puppy
• Fancy Dress
• Golden Oldie
• Best Rescue
Whether it’s a mischievous puppy, a loyal companion, a beloved rescue dog or a senior pet still enjoying life to the full, organisers say there is a category for every canine character.
Following the show, participants will set off on a sponsored 5km Waggy Tail Walk through the beautiful surroundings of Eglinton Country Park, led by the Ayrshire Hospice 2026 Ambassadog.
The event will conclude with the announcement of the coveted Best in Show award, with one lucky winner receiving a year’s Complete Care Plan courtesy of event sponsors Vets for Pets Ayrshire.
Dog clubs, walking groups and groups of friends are also being encouraged to enter together. Teams will have the opportunity to compete for the title of Ayrshire Hospice and Vets for Pets Ayrshire Best Dog Group.
Entry to the Dog Show costs £10 per dog and includes entry into up to three categories. The sponsored walk costs £10, with participants asked to raise a minimum of £150 in sponsorship. Those wishing to take part in both activities can do so for £20, which includes entry into three show categories. Human participants attend free of charge.
Funds raised from the event will help Ayrshire Hospice continue providing specialist care and support to patients living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as offering comfort and guidance to their families and loved ones.
The hospice’s fundraising team will be available to support walkers with sponsorship and fundraising ideas ahead of the event.
A spokesperson for Ayrshire Hospice said the Waggy Tail Walk and Dog Show is always one of the most enjoyable events in the fundraising calendar, bringing together dog lovers from across the region for a day of fun while making a real difference to local families.
Places can now be booked through the Ayrshire Hospice website, with organisers encouraging early registration for what promises to be another pawsome day in support of a worthy cause.
