Dog lovers in Sheffield, this one’s for you. Pooches in the Park 2025 lands at Millhouses Park on Sunday, 14th September from 11:00 to 16:00, and entry is totally free for Sheffield’s biggest dog show and community bash.
Whether your dog loves the spotlight or just wants to sniff around and make friends, there’s something here for every wagging tail.
Expect lively dog show competitions, artisan stalls, tasty food, and entertainment to keep everyone happy. The event is Thornberry Animal Sanctuary’s top fundraiser, supporting crucial veterinary care and upgrades for rescued animals.
Dog competition entries are just £2.50, but general admission doesn’t cost a thing.
It’s a chance to enjoy a day out with your best furry mate and support a cause that really matters. Everyone’s welcome—families, dog pros, or anyone who just loves a good dog day out.
Key Takeaways
- Pooches in the Park 2025 is a free dog show and family event on 14th September at Millhouses Park, Sheffield
- Dog competitions cost £2.50 per entry, plus there are local stalls, food, and fun for all ages
- All event proceeds support Thornberry Animal Sanctuary’s veterinary bills and facility improvements for rescued animals
Event Overview: Pooches in the Park 2025
Pooches in the Park 2025 happens on Sunday 14th September at Millhouses Park, Sheffield, from 11:00 to 16:00. You’ll find dog competitions, local stalls, and family entertainment—all while helping animals in need.
Date, Time and Location
Mark your calendar for Sunday 14th September 2025. The event runs 11:00 to 16:00, so you’ve got plenty of time to explore.
We’re setting up at Millhouses Park in Sheffield, a spot with loads of space for all the day’s activities and competitions.
Entry is totally free. Pop in and out as you like—there’s no pressure to stay the whole time.
If you want to enter your dog in a competition, it’s just £2.50 per go. That fee goes straight to supporting the sanctuary’s work.
What to Expect on the Day
Sheffield’s biggest dog show has something for every dog lover. Maybe your dog’s a show-off, maybe they just want to hang out—either way, you’ll both have fun.
Explore dog show categories, browse local stalls for treats and dog gear, and grab a bite to eat from one of the food vendors.
There’s entertainment for the whole family, so no one gets bored. The vibe is relaxed—join activities at your own pace, or just soak up the atmosphere.
Thornberry Animal Sanctuary’s Mission
Thornberry Animal Sanctuary puts on this event to raise funds for animals who need help. Every pound you spend gives rescued animals food, shelter, and medical care.
The charity works hard to provide a safe place for animals in need. Your support makes a real difference in the local community.
Past events raised over £5,000, which shows just how much the community cares. That kind of support changes lives for vulnerable animals.
The Annual Dog Show Experience
The Pooches in the Park dog show has a place for every dog—purebreds and rescue pups alike. Entering is easy, and the judges just want to see the bond between you and your dog.
Dog Show Classes and Categories
The annual dog show has loads of categories for all kinds of dogs. You don’t need a pedigree to join in.
Popular competition classes include:
- Best in Show
- Scruffiest Dog
- Best Fancy Dress
- Agility demonstrations
- Waggiest Tail
- Most Obedient
The fancy dress contest always draws a crowd. Bring your creativity—costumes are encouraged!
Rescue dogs and purebreds compete side by side. Judges care more about the connection between you and your dog than pedigree.
How to Enter Your Dog
Sign up for the dog show on the day at Millhouses Park. Get there early if you want your pick of categories.
Registration opens at 11:00 AM. Your dog can enter more than one category if you’re feeling ambitious.
What to bring:
- Your dog’s favourite treats
- Water bowl and lead
- Camera for those must-have photos
- Small entry fee (just a couple quid)
No need to book ahead for most categories. Decide what feels right for your dog once you arrive.
Friendly volunteers will help you register and explain the simple rules. They’ll also suggest which categories might be a good fit.
Judging Criteria and Prizes
Judges just want to see happy, healthy dogs. They look for dogs that seem content and show good behaviour with their owners.
Prizes usually include:
- Rosettes for winners
- Small gifts and treats
- Certificates
- Photo ops
The “Scruffiest Dog” category is all about personality, not looks. Rescue dogs and mixed breeds are celebrated here.
Everyone who takes part gets some recognition. Local pet shops and Sheffield businesses often donate prizes, which is a nice touch.
Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Pooches in the Park isn’t just for dogs—there’s loads for families, too. You’ll find games, live entertainment, and plenty to keep the kids busy.
Fun Dog Agility and Games
Watch skilled pups take on agility courses, or let your own dog try out some beginner-friendly obstacles. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can get involved.
There are dog competitions throughout the day—think scruffiest dog, fancy dress, and more. Creativity is definitely encouraged.
Popular Competition Categories:
- Best fancy dress
- Scruffiest dog
- Most obedient
- Waggiest tail
You can sign up for most activities on the day. The friendly, upbeat vibe makes it easy to meet fellow dog lovers and support Thornberry’s work.
Live Entertainment and Performances
Live acts keep the park buzzing all day. Local performers bring music and shows for every age group.
The entertainment runs from 11:00 to 16:00. Expect a mix of music, interactive performances, and maybe a few surprises.
Special rescue animal demos give you a peek at the sanctuary’s work. These moments are both fun and a little educational.
Children’s Activities
Kids get their own zones with age-appropriate games and fun. Face painting turns little ones into their favourite animals or superheroes.
Supervised animal encounters let children meet some of Thornberry’s gentler residents. It’s a safe way to teach them about animal welfare while making memories.
Craft stations are always busy—kids can decorate biscuits or make paw print keepsakes to take home. It’s a hands-on way to wrap up a great day at Pooches in the Park.
Artisan Market and Local Stalls
The Pooches in the Park artisan market brings together local makers and businesses. They offer unique handcrafted items and plenty of tempting food choices.
Stall spaces support Thornberry Animal Sanctuary and give you access to one-of-a-kind products. It’s a win-win for shoppers and the sanctuary alike.
Featured Vendors and Handmade Goods
You’ll come across a lovely mix of local artisans showing off their handcrafted wares at the market. From jewellery to woodwork, the range is pretty impressive—there’s something for everyone, honestly.
The sanctuary invites all kinds of makers to join in. Pottery, textiles, artwork—whatever your craft, this event is a great chance to share it with fellow dog lovers.
Stall spaces start from just £50 for most vendors. That price keeps things accessible for small businesses and independent creators.
Each stallholder sponsors a dog competition category. This connects your business with the day’s fun and supports the sanctuary’s mission at the same time.
The proceeds from stall fees go directly to helping animals in need. So your participation means more than just a spot at the market.
Food and Drink Offerings
Food and drink vendors pay slightly higher stall fees than other vendors. That helps ensure quality food options for families spending the day at Millhouses Park.
You’ll find a range of refreshments to keep you fuelled throughout the festivities. Local food businesses often show up, bringing regional flavours and some real treats.
The options usually include both quick bites and more substantial meals. Families planning to stay for hours will have plenty to choose from.
Bringing your own snacks is totally fine. But when you buy from the food stalls, you help raise more funds for the animal sanctuary’s work.
Supporting Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
The sanctuary relies on community support through donations and volunteering. You can make a real difference by giving your time or learning about the animals that call Thornberry home.
Fundraising and Donations
Your financial support keeps Thornberry Animal Sanctuary running every day. Every donation helps rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need across South Yorkshire.
You can donate online or drop by one of their charity shops. They operate four charity shops throughout South Yorkshire, each with pre-loved items from clothing to homeware.
Ways to donate:
- Direct online donations
- Shopping at charity shops
- Participating in fundraising events
- Sponsoring animals
The Tough Mudder challenge on 26th July 2025 is another way to raise funds. Their team will tackle the 5K obstacle course in Skipton to help the animals.
Volunteering Opportunities
Thornberry Animal Sanctuary welcomes volunteers who want to help care for animals. You can contribute your skills and time to support their daily operations.
The sanctuary needs help with all sorts of tasks throughout the week. Animal care, admin work, and event support all require dedicated volunteers.
Volunteer areas include:
- Animal care and feeding
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Administrative support
- Event assistance
- Charity shop help
Contact the sanctuary directly to find out about current volunteer positions. They’ll provide training and support so you can get started safely.
Meet the Animals: Dogs, Horses, and More
Thornberry Animal Sanctuary cares for dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, and other small farm animals. You can visit by appointment to meet animals available for adoption or sponsorship.
The sanctuary has two main locations. The Todwick Road site houses the main facilities, while the Equine Centre at Silverthorpe Farm looks after the horses.
Animals at Thornberry:
- Dogs of all sizes and ages
- Cats seeking homes
- Horses requiring rehabilitation
- Rabbits and small animals
- Farm animals needing care
You can’t bring your own dogs to visit, except for guide or assistance dogs. All visits need to be booked in advance so the animals get proper care.
The café opens daily from 9am to 3pm, so you can grab refreshments and support the sanctuary at the same time.
Planning Your Visit to Millhouses Park
Millhouses Park has great facilities for Pooches in the Park. Good transport links and amenities are close by.
The park sits between Abbeydale Road South and Hutcliffe Wood, making it easy to reach for visitors from Sheffield and beyond.
Travel and Parking Information
You can drive to Millhouses Park via Abbeydale Road South, which runs along the park’s northern edge. The A621 gives you direct access from Sheffield city centre, and the drive usually takes about 15 minutes.
Several car parks serve the area around the park. Street parking is available on nearby residential roads, but it fills up quickly during events.
Public transport can be a smart choice. The 120 and 97 bus routes stop near the park on Abbeydale Road South and run regularly throughout the day.
If you’re coming by train, Sheffield railway station is about 4 miles away. You can grab a bus or taxi from there to the park.
Consider carpooling with other dog owners to ease parking pressure. Plus, it’s a fun way to start the day with fellow attendees.
Accessibility and Facilities
Millhouses Park offers good accessibility for visitors with mobility needs. The main paths are paved and work well for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
The park’s flat terrain makes it easy to get around with dogs of any size. You won’t have to worry about steep hills or tricky surfaces, even for older dogs.
Public toilets are located near the entrance, including accessible options for wheelchair users.
The park features lots of open grass areas where your dog can stretch their legs. Benches are scattered throughout for when you need a break.
Water fountains offer drinking water for both you and your pet. Bring a portable bowl so your dog can stay hydrated all day.
The 12.87-hectare park has plenty of native and ornamental trees, offering welcome shade on sunny days.
Nearby Accommodation
Several hotels within 3 miles of Millhouses Park welcome guests with dogs. The Premier Inn Sheffield City Centre accepts pets for an extra fee and gives you easy access to the park.
Local bed and breakfasts often offer more personalised service for dog owners. Many have enclosed gardens where your pet can play safely.
Holiday rentals in the Millhouses and Abbeydale areas give you more space and flexibility. These usually include gardens and work well if you’re travelling with multiple dogs.
Camping options are limited near the park, but several campsites within 10 miles of Sheffield city centre accept pets and give you good access to the event.
Book your accommodation early, especially for September weekends. Many dog-friendly options fill up quickly during peak times.
Maybe stay an extra night and check out Sheffield’s other dog-friendly spots after the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
At this free community event, you’ll find everything from fun activities and competitions to local vendors. Safety measures and clear guidelines help make it a brilliant day out for both you and your four-legged pal.
What can you and your furry friend expect to find at Pooches in the Park this year?
You’ll find all sorts of fun activities designed for dogs and their families at Millhouses Park. The event runs from 11:00 to 16:00 on Sunday 14th September, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy everything.
Your pooch can enter competitions throughout the day. Whether your dog’s a natural showstopper or just loves meeting new friends, there’s something for every personality and skill level.
Stalls are scattered around the park with dog-related products and services. Local vendors will be there, all supporting Thornberry Animal Sanctuary’s mission to help animals across South Yorkshire.
How can you get involved in the fun activities planned for Pooches in the Park?
You can just show up and join in—the event is free. No advance booking is needed for most activities, so you can be as spontaneous as you like.
Your dog can enter competitions announced throughout the day. These range from fun, inclusive categories to more specific contests for particular talents or quirks.
Take your time exploring the stalls and chatting with other dog owners. The relaxed vibe means you can move at your own pace and enjoy whatever catches your eye.
Are there any specific requirements or rules we should be aware of before attending with our pooches?
Make sure your dog is well-socialised and comfortable around other animals before you go. There will be plenty of dogs in close quarters, so your pet needs to handle busy, lively environments.
Your dog must stay on a lead at all times for everyone’s safety. It helps prevent incidents and keeps things under control in the crowd.
You’re responsible for cleaning up after your pet, so bring waste bags. Disposal facilities will be dotted around the venue.
What measures are in place to ensure everyone’s safety during the Pooches in the Park event?
The organisers work closely with local authorities to manage crowds and safety. Millhouses Park offers plenty of outdoor space for dogs and families to spread out.
You’ll see clear signage and designated areas for each activity. This setup helps avoid overcrowding and keeps things moving smoothly.
Emergency procedures are ready if anything goes wrong. Event staff will be around to help with any concerns or issues during the day.
Can you tell us about the local vendors and charities that will be at Pooches in the Park?
Local businesses and makers are still being sought to join as stallholders at this year’s event.
It’s a great chance for small enterprises to show off what they do and pitch in for animal welfare at the same time.
You’ll find a bunch of dog-related products and services from regional suppliers. Most of these folks focus on stuff made just for pets and their people.
The main charity here is Thornberry Animal Sanctuary. They use what they raise to keep rescuing and rehoming animals who really need it.
Will there be any services available such as dog grooming or health checks at the event?
Each year, the services on offer change depending on which vendors show up. Honestly, you’ll just have to check on the day to see what the different stallholders are doing.
Lots of local pet-related businesses usually turn up at events like this. Sometimes they give basic health advice or show off products, but honestly, we don’t have a confirmed list for this year yet.
If you’re curious, it’s worth keeping an eye on Thornberry Animal Sanctuary’s social media. They’ll post updates about vendors and services as the event gets closer.
