THE Muddy Dog Dash is returning to Upton Country Park in March.

A fundraiser for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, the event will see hundreds of runners, joggers and walkers take to 2.5km and 5km routes on Saturday, March 29.

Dog lovers, adventure seekers, and supporters of the hospice are being urged to sign up to tackle a muddy obstacle course while raising funds for the cause.

Now in its 3rd year, the Muddy Dog Dash features obstacles including muddy ditches, tunnels, wiggle poles, and the ever-popular tyre runs and ramps.

This year also sees the introduction of new features, including a Doggy Disco and Colour Rope Jumps.

“Whether you walk, jog, or skip, this event is all about having fun and creating memories—all while supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s vital work for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families,” a spokesperson said.

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care has been providing care for more than 30 years to people across Poole, Purbeck, East Dorset and West Hampshire, from day hospices to bereavement services and more.

Anna Durose, events fundraiser, said: “A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors, partners and volunteers who help to make the event possible, with special mention to Barratt Homes, our headline sponsor.

“We are also grateful to Care South for their kind support and look forward to welcoming their residents to watch and cheer on our Muddy Dog Dashers.

“The Muddy Dog Dash is one of our most loved events, and we’re thrilled to bring it back for 2025 at Upton Country Park. Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, every step makes a difference to our patients and their families that we support. We can’t wait to see everyone there.”

For more details, and to sign up for the run, visit lewis-manning.org.uk/muddy-dog-dash. The first 100 sign-ups will receive a free T-shirt.

Entry costs: Dog & Adult, £15; Dog & Child, £10; Family (2 adults + 2 children), £25; Adult Only, £10; Child Only, £5; Additional Dog, £5. T-shirts are available for £6.

Participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship per dog, with all proceeds going directly to support Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s services.