For many of us, dogs are more than just companions. They’re part of the family, offering calm in anxious moments, comfort on hard days, and joy when we need it most.
That’s why Knose was so happy to be a part of Pawsitive Steps Festival held last 23 March 2025. A wonderful event where we get to celebrate the unique ways dogs support their humans while creating space for important conversations around mental health.
The Pawsitive Steps Festival was a day filled with interactive activities, passionate speakers, and a buzzing crowd of dogs and their families. The mental health walk was a beautiful reminder that we’re never walking alone, especially with our dogs by our side.
The only festival celebrating dogs and mental health
The day began with a round of Puppy Pilates, led by Lara Perret from MaxFit. As a fitness professional with a background in mental health, she made the session grounding as it was entertaining.
What made it so unique was the way she included dogs into each pose. It encouraged everyone to connect with their dogs while stretching and moving their bodies.
Many experts also shared their wisdom including George Tran, an experienced dog behaviourist and trainer, accompanied by his Rottweiler, Mouse. He spoke about how dogs are often surrendered or euthanised because of behavioural issues that are preventable or just misunderstood. Dogs can be tricky to train, that’s why he emphasised the importance of training that’s rooted in respect and understanding.
Rufftrack brought plenty of excitement with their “Paws Playdome”, an agility-style challenge for dogs. The goal was to get from one end of the field to the other while avoiding tempting distractions. It was really a test of focus! True to their curious nature, some dogs couldn’t resist the tennis balls, cones, and squeaky toys. The others made a beeline for their owners without so much as a glance at the obstacles.
Of course, no dog festival would be complete without a bit of fashion. The Pawsion Show brought the beauty out of every dog participant. It was delightful to see the many colourful costumes and the hard work put into it. The winner was a cavoodle with a fantastic Parisian outfit, complete with a beret and a bag of croissants—just in case of a snack emergency!
The event was friendly to all breeds and ages, even for puppies new to socialising. There were balloon artists and face painting for the kids, stalls of gourmet dog treats, pet photography, and handmade accessories. It was a big hit with families and dog lovers looking to take home something special.
Knose’s positive notes for mental wellness
We didn’t come empty handed and were glad to contribute something a little extra for the pet parents in attendance. While the dogs were busy with treats and play, we asked everyone to write a positive note for others to read. In return for their lovely words, we handed out free Knose merchandise. We strung the notes up for everyone to see, turning our booth into a colourful wall of encouragement.
Many stopped in their tracks to read them. There were words of hope, mantras, and reminders to look after both ourselves and our community. It was a simple but powerful way to show that mental health matters for us and dogs who can experience anxiety too.
Continuing the conversation together
Mental health deserves our time, attention and care. It affects every one of us, our dogs can struggle too. Let’s keep taking a step forward and break the stigma, encourage conversation, and remember that there’s no shame in what we go through.
Knose was proud to be part of that effort, supporting a space where wellbeing is prioritised and where every voice, paw and person matters.
Stay connected and follow us to find out where we’re heading next.
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Post by Knose Pet Insurance in collaboration with Ranzel
Ranzel is a perpetually caffeinated logophile whose work revolves around pets. She’s an advocate for the furred, feathered, and finned. A cat mum by fate, and a full-time sitter to an ever-growing crew of adorable strays.
