Dog lovers to unite for Staffy Stampede

STAFFORDSHIRE bull terriers and their two-legged friends will come together in Geelong this weekend to celebrate the affectionate dog breed.

The inaugural Staffy Stampede will give dogs and their owners time to socialise and include a leisurely 5km walk around the Barwon River, beginning at the Belmont Dog Park.

It will take place this Sunday, April 21 from 11am.

Event organiser Laura Taylor-Payne said dog lovers and all dog breeds were welcome to join the gathering.

“I thought it would be a good idea to get people out and about who also love dogs and to do something active,” she said.

“I’m a [physical education] teacher, so I thought it would be really good to have a bit of a walk.”

The Portarlington local said the event was inspired by her staffy Winnie, now almost two years of age, who has had a large impact on her life “physically, mentally and socially”.

“I did a trip around Australia two years ago and when I came back, it was like coming back out of COVID.

“You’re back into the busyness of life with kids, taking them off to games and stuff after school.

“[Winnie] just really helped me with that adjustment and I was forced to go out and walk and meet other dog lovers.

“So, I was like, ‘What can I do for you?’ I could organise a massive playdate for you.”

She said the Staffy Stampede was similar to the Gold Rush and the Dachshund Dash and was about “trying to have people that love the breed come together and celebrate staffys in a positive light”.

She said the dog breed was “good with kids” and was known for its “loyalty” and “unconditional love”.

“I think they get a bit of a bad rap from some people in society,” Ms Taylor-Payne said.

“They’re actually beautiful, beautiful dogs and we often refer to them as the Velcro dog because they just want to be on you 24/7.”

All attendees are encouraged to make a donation to Stafford Rescue Victoria on the day, either via gold coin donation or bank deposit.

Dog treats, donated by the Moolap-based Pet Corner Store, will also be handed out at the conclusion of the walk.

Ms Taylor-Payne said she hopes the Staffy Stampede will growing into an annual event that includes both market stalls and local food vendors.

For more information, email [email protected]