DOG-WALKERS will gather at Brickfield Pond in Rhyl on Sunday for the launch of a new Walkie Dogs group.

Walkie Dogs is a social dog-walking club that aims to bring together dog owners for group walks. Rhyl is one of 74 UK towns and cities where Walkie Dogs will launch on Sunday, August 18.

The first walks - led by volunteer 'Pack Leaders' - in Rhyl will take place at Brickfield Pond this weekend, where there is ample space and greenery for four-legged friends and their owners to meet, enjoy the outdoors and get to know each other.

"Walkie Dogs is the first group of its kind on this scale," said founder and Pack Leader Danny Silk. "I hope it will not only bring dog lovers together, but offer a supportive space for owners which will benefit the local community in lots of different ways."

Research suggests social dog walking offers a host of wellbeing benefits, with three quarters of those studied by Kennel Club reporting that walking their dog improved their overall mood.  

Walkie Dogs is the first in the UK to organise weekly group walks on a national scale. Danny came up with the idea initially as a charity fundraiser to support LGBTQ+ mental health causes. As its popularity grew however, he chose to roll it out to everyone.

You must be a member to book onto the walks, which each have a 30-dog limit. You can sign up at walkiedogs.com and fees start from £40 per year for one person and one dog rising to £60 per year for two people and up to four dogs. Once signed up there is no additional charge, you can book on  walks at any UK location for free.

Members also gain access to a variety of dog-friendly perks including discounts on products including dog staycations and receive access to the Dog Pages, a service directory offering information on groomers, kennels and pet shops.

Dog first aid training courses are also available to book at a reduced rate.

Walkie Dogs also works closely with several charities including the Blue Cross, a charity which helps treat and rehome sick, injured or homeless pets. Each Walkie Dogs Pack Leader will have collection buckets where people can donate at every walk. 

“The physical and mental wellbeing of our members and their pets is our utmost priority," said Danny. "As well as providing a fun experience each week our walks are run by volunteers and we are actively recruiting young people to help offer them valuable work experience.