DogFest, in partnership with Agria Pet Insurance, has announced the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) as its official charity partner for the 2026 event season.
The NFRSA is dedicated to supporting the ongoing care and welfare of retired service animals who have served alongside the UK’s emergency services. By assisting with the costs of essential veterinary treatment, the charity ensures these loyal animals receive the care they deserve in retirement.
As part of the partnership, DogFest attendees will have the opportunity to support the NFRSA when purchasing tickets, with an optional donation available at checkout. Festival-goers can also get involved with on-the-day fundraising activities across all 2026 DogFest events including DogFest in the Countryside at Tatton Park, DogFest on the Farm at Harewood House, and DogFest at the Palace at Blenheim Palace events.
Retired Cheshire Police Dog: Luca
Luca is a beautiful German Shepherd, who was donated to Cheshire Police at only 4 months of age, due to being very playful and a bit of a handful.
Luca was provided with all the necessary training to become a general-purpose dog and was trained in areas such as bite work, property searches, tracking and obedience.
Sadly, Luca fell ill and was diagnosed with epilepsy which caused him to have seizures. Following a medical examination, Luca was medically retired from Cheshire Police in April 2025, and his previous handler was unable to provide Luca with a permanent home.
Step forward Dan, also a serving Cheshire Police Officer, who took one look at the advert for Luca and couldn’t say no. In Dan’s own words: “Luca now lives with me full time to enjoy his retirement, and I am trying to provide him with the best care possible and the love and attention he needs (including playing with his Kong of course).
“Luca needs prescription medication each month to keep his condition under control and hopefully prevent any further seizures”
DogFest, known for celebrating the joy dogs bring to our lives, is proud to align with a cause that recognises the invaluable contribution of working animals who have spent their lives protecting and serving communities.
Sam Matthews, Marketing Director at DogFest, said: “At DogFest, we celebrate the incredible bond between dogs and humans, and so we’re honoured to partner with the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals for 2026. These remarkable animals have given so much in service to our communities, and this partnership allows us and our visitors to give something back, helping ensure they enjoy the happy and healthy retirement they truly deserve.”
Founder and Chair of the NFRSA, The Rt. Hon. The Countess Bathurst, said: “We are delighted to be named the official charity partner for DogFest in 2026. Since founding the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals in 2022, our membership has grown to more than 650 retired service animals, and we are immensely proud to have awarded over £275,000 in grants to date.
“Entirely funded by the generosity of our supporters, the NFRSA exists to ensure that those animals who have given so much in service are properly cared for in retirement. DogFest is a genuine celebration of the bond between people and dogs, which very closely aligns with our own values. This partnership will provide a wonderful national platform to raise awareness of our work and to help us continue our mission to Protect our Protectors.”
