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Bark to the Future children’s art competition

Dog Furiendly, a great source for dog-friendly adventures, has teamed up with pet healthcare specialists Bob Martin (who are celebrating their 130 year anniversary) to launch a tail-wagging art competition for children aged between five and 16 years.

The Bark to the Future art competition asks young people to create paintings or drawings themed around the question – what dogs will look like in 130 years time?

There are two age group categories: 5-11 years and 12-16 years. The winners in each category will get to see their illustration come to life by being turned into a soft plush toy, and runners up will get a personalised pet portrait of their dog.

Additionally, children will get to see their illustrations on a range of products – T-shirts, mug, etc – which will raise funds for Pets As Therapy and our Read2Dogs scheme. PAT Dogs who are part of the Read2Dogs scheme help pupils who find reading difficult or stressful. School children are given the opportunity to sit with a PAT Dog and read, which can help them improve their literacy skills, confidence and social skills. Dogs don't judge or put any form of pressure on the child who is reading aloud, so this time together becomes an enjoyable experience.

At present around 6,000 children across the country benefit from the Read2Dog scheme each week.

“We’re hoping that this competition provides a little bit of fun for kids across the country and is an ideal activity for those rainy days when it’s not as easy to get out and about,” adds Chris Socratous, Senior Brand Manager at Bob Martin. “Not only that, but you’ll be helping to raise much-needed funds for a fantastic cause too, whilst setting your child’s imagination free to run wild with possibilities.”

Founder of Dog Furiendly, Adele Pember, says: “We’re encouraging children to let their imagination run wild. What will dogs look like in 130 years? Maybe they rule their own planet? Or perhaps they walk like us on two legs?

“Dogs provide us all with so much unconditional love and friendship, so no matter how different they look in 130 years time - they’ll always be ‘man’s best friend.’”

We are happy to say that Pets As Therapy will be part of the judging panel. We cannot wait to see your creations!

Don't delay - the entry form and artwork upload system close automatically at exactly 11.59pm on 7 November 2022. 

Download the Competition Guidance Pack HERE

Drawings and paintings for the competition can be submitted here: dogfuriendly.com/barktothefuture

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