The second annual Gauteng Golden Retriever Day is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 10, from 10am to 1pm at Moreleta Kerk in Pretoria. Organised by Gauteng Golden Retrievers, the family-friendly event aims to bring together Golden Retriever owners and their dogs while supporting a good cause. The gathering will feature various activities, including a splash pool and dog agility course.
The event is being held to raise funds for Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa (GRRSA), a registered non-profit organisation that helps Golden Retrievers in need through a network of volunteers across several regions of the country. GRRSA relies on public support to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome Golden Retrievers. Last year's event attracted 149 Golden Retrievers, and organisers are hoping to build on its success.
The event will also feature pet-related vendors offering accessories, treats, and other products. Behavioural experts will be available to offer advice to attendees. To ensure safety, attending dogs must be socialised, vaccinated, and dewormed, while collars or harnesses with identification tags are mandatory. The event will be held off lead, but dogs that are on heat will not be permitted to attend.
Organiser Sandra Pavic said the Gauteng gathering was inspired by larger Golden Retriever meet-ups held in countries including Scotland, Australia, and the United States. The main purpose of the event remains fundraising for GRRSA. Pavic reflected on the success of last year's event, describing it as a day of "wagging tails, muddy paws, and unforgettable memories."
GRRSA head Liezel Mortimer previously expressed gratitude to organisers, vendors, sponsors, and attendees for supporting the event. She emphasised that the volunteer-based organisation relies on public support to carry out its mission. The event has also received support from pet wellness brands, including PetShop Science, Badoodoo, Sniffle Snuffle, and Vets2Pets.
In terms of logistics, children under 16 can attend for free, while general admission tickets are available for adults and their dogs. Limited goody bags will also be available, featuring items supplied by event sponsors. Tickets and event information are available through Quicket's Golden Retriever Day event page.
For organisers, the celebration is ultimately about bringing the Golden Retriever community together while raising funds for dogs in need. The event aims to promote responsible pet ownership and provide a fun, safe environment for both dogs and their owners.
Key points
- The event aims to raise funds for Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa.
- Last year's event attracted 149 Golden Retrievers.
- The event will feature a splash pool, dog agility course, and pet-related vendors.
