Event Description
Come along to St Columb's Park House for a fascinating day discovering interesting facts about our canine companions. On hand will be local experts, trainers, vets and researchers sharing insights on everything from dog nutrition and health to the fascinating roles dogs have played in history and most recently in therapy, conservation and medical care.
Through a variety of talks, live demonstrations and information stands you'll explore cutting-edge research and practical knowledge in the canine world.
Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow dog enthusiasts and learn from top minds in the field—whether you’re a dog owner or simply curious about these incredible animals, join us on the day to update your knowledge and scientific insights into canine life.
This event is free to attend but some talks are limited and will require a small fee or registration to guarantee a place.
DEMONSTRATIONS (Free drop-in)
Pet Acupuncture - Talk and Demo combined (Indoors)
Time: 10.00am - 10.30am
Conservation Dogs that Sniff out Data (Walled Garden)
Time: 12.30noon - 1.00pm
Search and Rescue Dogs (Walled Garden)
Time: 2.30pm - 3.00pm
AT A GLANCE TALKS WITH BOOKING LINKS - All talks will take place indoors in St Columb's Park House.
(20min talks and 10mins Q&A)
Title: Pet Acupuncture (Talk and Indoor Demonstration)
Speaker: Vet - Emma-Jane Hunniford
Time: 10.00am - 10.30am (Talk & Demo Combined)
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Title: All Things Dog: Sentient Beings in Northern Ireland
Speaker: Tara Cunningham, Manager and Animal Welfare Lobbyist
Time: 10.45am - 11.15am
Booking link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Title: Paws and Play – Safe and Happy Dog Interactions for Families
Facilitator: Dogs Trust NI
Time: 10.45 - 11.15am (Suitable for families 3 yrs + )
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Title: Dogs that Sniff Out Data! (Conservation Detection Dogs)
Facilitator: Dr Caroline Finlay
Time: 11.30 - 12.00
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Title: Dog Training: The Science Behind It
Speaker: Dog Behaviourist Dr. Tara Cooper
Time: 1.00pm - 1.30pm
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Title: Paws on the Ground: The Realities of Search and Rescue Dog Team
Speaker: Trainer Trevor Hartley & his dog Tess
Time: 2pm - 2.30pm
Admission: £3 (admission fee to this talk will go to SARDA) Suitability: 14yrs +
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Title: Digging Up the Past: Dogs in Archaeology
Speaker: HERoNI Archaeologist Bronagh Patricia Murray
Time: 3.00pm - 3.30pm - Suitability: 8yrs
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
Canine Care – Tips for Happy, Healthy Dogs
Speaker: Dogs Trust NI - Suitability: Family
Time: 3.30pm - 4.00pm
Booking Link:https://nisciencefestival.com/...
*Only assistance/therapy dogs can be accommodated inside the building.
*We ask that all dogs are kept on a lead at all times.