Milton Keynes dog owners urged to walk a mile a day over Christmas for charity

The Winter Wag-Along, a fundraising campaign led by premium raw pet food brand, Natural Instinct, is encouraging pet owners to get in the festive spirit this December and support local Milton Keynes based charity, the National Animal Welfare Trust.

The new initiative encourages dogs and their owners to dig out their antlers, festive jumpers and Santa hats to dress up and walk a mile or more a day for charity.

The fundraising campaign will encourage pet owners to make a voluntary donation towards the invaluable work carried out by the National Animal Welfare Trust and Dog A.I.D.

Rachel Kirby, spokesperson for Natural Instinct, said: "We’re so excited to launch the Winter Wag-Along this December. We have worked closely with the National Animal Welfare Trust and Dog A.I.D for a number of years and are delighted to give back through our first nationwide fundraising campaign.

"We hope pet owners across the UK will join us in recognising the wonderful work of our chosen charities, while taking part in some much-needed festive fun, following what has been a challenging year.”

Ahead of the traditionally indulgent Christmas season, Natural Instinct is keen to remind pet owners to be mindful of their pet’s health and fitness.

Animal Behaviouri Kirsten Dillon said: "The canine and human brains are very similar; both need the feel-good endorphins that are produced by exercise and socialising. During winter we can feel less motivated, and this is especially true during a lockdown when we’re all spending increased time at home and are unable to socialise with others.

"However, even the shortest of walks with small doses of interaction can have a hugely positive effect mental well-being and fitness levels for both you and your dog. In fact, studies have shown that dogs burn more calories if their walks include interactions with other dogs.

"This winter, perhaps more than any other, it is extremely important that we embrace the outdoors to walk our dogs, not only for their benefit but our own also. This is why I am supporting the #WinterWagAlong challenge and will be taking part with my own pooch Fiddy Scent.”

All dog owners can register to take part and the lucky 100 who are first to do so will receive their very own Winter Wag-Along goody bag, including a festive dog bandana, special poo bag dispenser, delicious Natural Instinct Lamb Lite treats and more.

Also, all participants who take part and share a #WinterWagAlong selfie will be entered into a prize draw to win a bumper Christmas hamper worth over £200.

To register to take part in the Winter Wag-along, simply email winterwagalong@naturalinstinct.com with your name and postal address. The first 100 people to register will receive a limited-edition goody bag.

For more information, visit @naturalinstinctfood on Instagram or Facebook @NIPetfoods to confirm entry into the prize draw.

The winner will be drawn at 5pm on Friday, December 18.