THE Muddy Dog Challenge is returning to the New Forest helping to raise money for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

Battersea's Muddy Dog Challenge sees dogs complete either a 2.5km or 5km outdoor obstacle course alongside their owner in the name of charity.

Jasmine Monk, senior challenge events officer at Battersea, said: "We are so excited to be back in the New Forest for the Muddy Dog Challenge and we can't wait to see everyone getting muddy and tackling our obstacle course with their canine companions by their side.

"Battersea continues to go above and beyond for every dog and cat caring for animals in our centres and supporting other rescue and rehoming organisations across the UK and beyond to help more animals.

"Every penny raised by our wonderful supporters will help us continue our mission to be here for dogs and cats everywhere."

The event takes place on Saturday, April 22 this year.

Pet lovers will be faced with a variety of obstacles to jump under, over or through, including wading through the mud in the Canine Crawl, weaving through the Mutt Mazes, and crawling through the Ball Pit Tunnels as participants have the opportunity to unleash their inner child.

People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part as they can either run or walk the course, as there's even the option of taking on the course solo without a furry friend.

Each participant is encouraged to raise a target of £100 for Battersea so the charity can continue to be there for dogs and cats everywhere.

Once registered, participants will receive a Muddy Dog Challenge t-shirt and dog bandana to take part in on the day, as well as a well-earned medal and rosette for making it across the finish line.

The picturesque, Breamore House in Fordingbridge will host the challenge for the second year in a row after it hosted the event for the very first time last year.

It's the first of six Muddy Dog Challenges taking place across the country in 2023 as other venues include Derby, Stansted, Tunbridge Wells, Windsor and Leeds.

Last year's New Forest Muddy Dog Challenge raised more than £85,000 for Battersea.

For tickets and more information, visit www.muddydog.battersea.org.uk