Knokke-Heist (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Four project management students organized a sold-out dachshund festival, featuring races and costume contests, to celebrate the breed and support Animal Trust in Melle. Each of the 300 dogs received colored bands for safety.
Four project management students at a local school came up with the idea to organize a dachshund festival after Victorine shared her experience caring for a dachshund. Realizing the popularity of this dog breed among pet lovers, they researched dachshund festivals held in other countries that attracted large crowds. Inspired by these successful events, the students decided to celebrate a similar festival in their community to bring dachshund owners together and celebrate their love for this charming breed.
What activities can dachshund owners expect at the Knokke-Heist festival?
The students planned a dachshund festival to create a fun event for owners and fans. Their goal was to provide a space for people to socialize and celebrate. The festival would feature activities like playful races and adorable costume contests, all focused on dachshunds and their owners. It has been said that by combining their school project with their love for this dog breed, the students hoped to create an event that would meet their academic goals while making lasting memories for the community and highlighting the charming personality of dachshunds.
The dachshund festival quickly sold out its 300 tickets, and each dog received a colored band to indicate their friendliness. Green bands meant the dogs were friendly and could be petted, while orange bands required caution, and red bands signaled to keep a distance. The festival featured relaxing massages for the dogs and a playground where they could play without collars. Owners enjoyed lectures from dog behavior experts and had the chance to buy dog clothing and ceramics, with an artist offering dog portraits. Proceeds from the event will support Animal Trust in Melle, East Flanders, which rescues and rehomes neglected or abused dogs.
