Bark in the Park 2025 Raises the Woof for Mental Health in Teesside

Hundreds of people – and just as many paws – came together at Stewart Park, Middlesbrough once again for Bark in the Park 2025, Teesside Mind’s flagship dog-friendly fundraising event. The day brought a mix of community spirit, canine competitions, and vital conversations about mental health.

The event raised more than £6,000 in funds to support mental health services across Teesside, all in a fun-filled setting for families, dog lovers, and four-legged friends.

From fun dog shows and agility demonstrations to market stalls, local food vendors, and behaviour training demos, the event offered something for everyone.

Local Support Drives Success

The event was generously supported by a range of local sponsors and businesses. Sponsorship came from K9 Fun-Time, with additional backing from Middlesbrough Vets4Pets and Awesome Pawz. Our amazing event partners included, Eemits Communications, Speedy Services, Nixon Hire, Middlesbrough College and Jollyes Stockton.

Teesside Mind also partnered with Dakota's Choice – Animal Behaviour & Training, whose team helped manage dog activities and offered expert advice to attendees throughout the day.

Special thanks were given to Stewart Park and Middlesbrough Council for providing the scenic venue, and to ASICS for sponsoring the event through its national #MindsBestFriend campaign in partnership with Mind.

Class sponsors included a range of local names such as The Dog House, Eston Events Centre, Oaklands Veterinary Centre, MMC-Exterior Cleaning, Chaplynn's Country Store Ltd, Batleys Cleveland, North East Animal Laser Solutions, Hattons Hungry Hounds, The Raw Plaice, Teesside Dog Services, Smiles Nurseries Billingham & Norton and the Jones Family.

A Marketplace of Local Talent

The park was alive with over 20 stalls from regional traders, including popular names like D&D's Natural Dog Treats, Middlesbrough Vets4Pets, Woof And Pup, Claire's Sparkling Touches, The Raw Plaice, North East Animal Laser Solutions, Greys Kitchen, SitFido - Portraits for Pets, Groovy Paws, Wag Wear GB, The Shiba Bean, Awesome Pawz, Buddy's Pals Natural Treats, Hattons Hungry Hounds, Jess for Pets, Falkors Fancies, Sugarlove Donuts, Ramside Event Catering, Five Rivers Child Care, The Vet Pet Nurse, Askham Bryan College and Poppy's Pack Dog Walking and Wedding Chaperone Services. Many vendors offered dog treats, toys, grooming accessories, and personalised pet gifts, turning the event into a shopper’s haven for pet lovers.

Capturing the Day

Local photographer K Taylor Photography was on hand to capture the heartwarming highlights of the event – from joyful pet portraits to candid community moments. To view all the photos from the day, click here.

Looking Ahead

As Teesside Mind prepares for the next Bark in the Park in 2026, we’re already building on the momentum from 2025. The event continues to grow in popularity and importance, highlighting the link between animal companionship and mental wellbeing.

For updates on Bark in the Park 2026 and how to get involved, follow Teesside Mind on social media or visit www.teessidemind.org.uk.