Welcome to Yorkshire
News • July 21st, 2026
|DogFest on the Farm has made an exciting announcement for its 2026 event, which will be held at Harewood House on 12th and 13th September. The festival has partnered with the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) as its official charity partner. This partnership aims to raise awareness and funds to support retired service animals, highlighting their contributions and ensuring they receive the care they deserve in their retirement.
NFRSA's Mission
The NFRSA is dedicated to the welfare of retired service animals that have served alongside emergency services in the UK, including those based right here in Yorkshire. The charity provides assistance with essential veterinary care, ensuring that these loyal companions can enjoy a happy retirement after years of service. Since its establishment in 2022, the NFRSA has grown significantly, now supporting over 650 retired service animals and having awarded more than £275,000 in grants.
Support for Retired Service Animals
Festivalgoers at DogFest will have the chance to contribute to this important cause. When purchasing tickets, attendees can opt to make a donation to the NFRSA, which will be used to help cover veterinary costs for retired service animals. Additionally, there will be various fundraising activities throughout the event, allowing participants to engage actively and support the cause.
Meet Rex: A Local Hero
One of the highlighted stories in this partnership is that of Rex, a retired German Shepherd who served as a Prison Patrol dog at HMP Wakefield. Rex worked diligently for nearly five years, performing crucial roles that included providing security, preventing escapes, and supporting prison staff. His training equipped him to locate missing individuals and to respond in potentially dangerous situations.
Rex's journey into retirement is being supported by the NFRSA, which helps cover his veterinary expenses. His handler, Ray, shared a touching account of their bond:
“Rex was given away by his owner when he was two years old, and I was the lucky person who made the acquaintance of this stand-offish, growly, angry monster. But like everything, things change, and after a lot of hot dog sausages, we bonded and made it through our initial course together.”
Ray describes Rex as his best mate and a loving companion to his family. “He has worked by my side for the last five years, but these days he is mainly chilling out and embracing retirement,” Ray added. Rex's story serves as a reminder of the significant contributions made by service animals and the importance of ensuring they receive the care they need after their working years.
DogFest Celebrates the Bond with Dogs
DogFest is known for its celebration of the unique bond between humans and dogs.
Sam Matthews, Marketing Director at DogFest, expressed excitement about the partnership:
“At DogFest, we celebrate the incredible bond between dogs and humans, and so we’re honoured to partner with the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals for 2026. These remarkable animals have given so much in service to our communities, and this partnership allows us and our visitors to give something back, helping ensure they enjoy the happy and healthy retirement they truly deserve.”
Join the Celebration
Attendees of DogFest can look forward to a fun-filled experience that includes live music, family entertainment, and a bustling marketplace with artisan food and crafts. There will also be plenty of activities for dogs and their owners, such as agility courses and fun dog shows. The festival promises to be a wonderful day out for families, friends, and dog lovers alike.
In addition to DogFest on the Farm at Harewood House, the festival will also host DogFest at the Palace at Blenheim Palace on 3rd and 4th October 2026. Each event will feature unique activities, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
For those interested in supporting retired service animals while enjoying a fantastic day out, tickets for DogFest and more information about the events can be found on the official DogFest website. This partnership with the NFRSA aims not only to celebrate the joy dogs bring to our lives but also to honour the dedicated service of animals like Rex, ensuring they receive the love and care they deserve in their golden years.
