Hundreds of dogs attend Dogstival at Burley Park, New Forest

Cockapoos, Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds and more enjoyed the first day of the second annual Dogstival.

This two-day extravaganza of four-legged fun was initially due to take place earlier this year but with coronavirus restrictions imposed, the 'pupular' event had to be postponed.

Although restrictions are still imposed, Burley Park offers acres of space to explore, allowing easy social distancing for dogs and humans alike.

Extra hygiene measures are also in place, including multiple hand sanitiser stations across the festival and on-site cleaning teams in action on both days.

Hygiene measures have also been implemented by stallholders, of which there are 150.

From dog accessories, treats, human snacks and innovative apps, there is plenty at the festival to keep everyone entertained.

Dog Furiendly founder Adele Pember was extremely pleased Dogstival was going ahead, enabling her to showcase her "TripAdvisor for dog owners" website that shares places people can visit with their furry friend.

She said: "It was a bit hit and miss at some points, especially seeing other festivals close, so when we heard that Dogstival was still taking place our tails were wagging. We all feel completely safe and we’ve taken extra measures ourselves by offering hand sanitiser and making sure that everything is disinfected.

"It’s been a great day."

Satisfaction and success were similar sentiments shared by Bud's Bites owner Mollie Edwards who also had a stall at the festival.

Her newly-founded company, inspired by pick and mix and her dog Buddy, has been popular with visitors.

Mollie said: "During lockdown, we had loads of pick and mix ourselves as humans. We saw our dog Buddy looking at us longingly but we obviously couldn’t give him any so we thought, ‘why don’t we put together Bud’s favourite treats in one bag?’ We thought it was a bit of fun for other pooches and their owners.

"It’s gone really well and we’ve nearly sold out. Tomorrow we’re going to have to stock up a bit more. There are really lovely people here as well, so it’s been so nice."

Another popular stall was Experience the New Forest; an app created by two friends to help dog owners and non dog owners alike make the most of the New Forest.

The app brings new locations to people's attention, encouraging them to walk their dog somewhere new or to support a small, independent cafe, amongst much more.

Co-founder Jon Richardson explained how significant the first day of Dogstival has been for the four-week-old app's progress.

He said: "We now have around 1700 downloads. Dogstival is a drive to raise awareness and promote those small businesses on the app."

Along with a plethora of stalls, Dogstival also hosts ultimate doggy thrills and high-energy challenges, including the K9 Aqua Sports Pool, agility courses and SUP with Pup.

The K9 Aqua Sports Pool encouraged dogs to launch themselves into water and bring a tennis ball back to their owner, with many enjoying numerous attempts at this wet game.

A Labrador with a variety of tricks up his sleeve particularly enjoyed the K9 Aqua Sports Pool.

Milo's owner Emma Floyd said: "Milo has really enjoyed himself, he absolutely loves the pool– he’s been in it twice now. This is the first time I’ve been here as last year I had exams, so I thought ‘we’re definitely going to go this year.'"

The last day of Dogstival takes place today (September 6) at Burley Park, New Forest.

Tickets are advance purchase only and are priced £13.90 for adults or £8 children aged six to 16 years.

Children under six go free and concessions are available.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: Dogstival.co.uk.