Competitions & Activities
Choose a competition to learn more and enter. All entries are FREE!
Sample Entries — See what we're looking for
Not sure how to tell your dog's story? Here are two examples of the kind of submissions that make our judges' tails wag. Share the moments, the meaning, and the mischief.
Twin Waters Everyday Heroes
Eddie
Cattle × Rottweiler · 4 years · Owner: Naomi
Eddie is an outstanding Everyday Hero.
Eddie has helped other dogs make it home to their families — how has he done this? Eddie has been a doggy blood donor! Without Eddie's donation, other dogs would not have made it back to their home and their families would have been devastated.
We are so proud of Eddie for helping give life to other dogs and their families.
This is a sample submission to show the kind of story we love to receive. Photos + heartfelt words → we can't wait to read yours!
Best Dog Dad (Father's Day)
Misty
Border Collie · 3 years · Dog Dad: Marty
I'm Misty and my dad is the best dad in the world! He does so many fun-tivity things with me every week. One week we go do agility — I love agility days because I can run & jump and shoot through tunnels. Other days we go to do all kinds of tricks like standing on blocks, touching paws, jumping through hoops, spinning & twirling and my favourite of all, rolling over; I know over 20 tricks and dad is still teaching me more.
Some days we just go for a walk and maybe play ball, but my favourite day of the month is when he gets my favourite trainer to come pick me up and take me out for an adventure day away from home — we do something different every time I get to go with her.
Ooohh, I almost forgot about going swimming in our pool! It's my Sissy that goes in with me, but Dad throws my retriever toys for me to swim after and he takes credit for it because he says if he hadn't had the pool heated my Sissy wouldn't go in during the winter.
Dad does all of these things for me even though I've been going through my naughty teenage years — but he says that, now that I am growing up and behaving better, he is going to start taking me to the off-leash beach where I can run and jump in the waves.
This is a sample submission to show the kind of story we love to receive. Photos + heartfelt words → we can't wait to read yours!
Not all heroes wear capes—some have paws.
Our Everyday Dog Hero Contest celebrates the dogs who make a difference in the quiet, meaningful ways that matter most. This is your chance to share the story of your dog and why they are your personal hero.
Whether they've helped you through a difficult time, bring daily comfort and companionship, protect your family, or simply fill your life with unconditional love and joy—every story matters.
We invite community members to submit a short entry telling us what makes their dog an everyday hero. A Story Wall will be featured at the event sharing all the community hero stories submitted and selected stories will be shared by the MC during the event.
Because sometimes, the smallest acts of love leave the biggest pawprints.
How to Enter
Submit your dog's story via the form below or email us at paws@twra.net
- •Your name and your dog's name
- •A short story (approx. 100–250 words) about why your dog is an everyday hero
- •A photo of your dog
Winners will be announced at the event with special recognition awarded to some of our most inspiring canine companions.
Every hero has a story—and we can't wait to hear yours.
The TWRA annual Paws in the Park event is being held on Father's Day this year, so we decided it was a great opportunity to also celebrate the incredible bond between dogs and their devoted dads.
Our Best Dog Dad Contest recognises the men who go above and beyond for their four-legged companions—the early morning walkers, the treat givers, the trainers, the protectors, and the ones who never say no to 'just one more cuddle.' Whether he's teaching new tricks, planning daily adventures, or simply being your dog's favourite human, this is your chance to give a well-deserved shoutout to an amazing dog dad. Nominate yourself, a partner, friend, neighbour or a family member and tell us why they deserve the title of TWRA's Best Dog Dad.
How to enter
Know an amazing dog dad? Enter him in the TWRA Dog Dad contest by: Your entry should include the dog dad's name (and dog's name), a short story (approx. 100–250 words) about what makes him a great dog dad, and a photo of the dog dad and their pup.
Winners will be announced at the event with special recognition
A fun twist on musical chairs for dogs and their owners
Prizes:
Winner takes all prize pool
Test your dog's obedience skills in this exciting challenge
Prizes:
Medals and treats
Step into the spotlight and celebrate what makes your dog truly special in our Paws of Purpose themed Costume Parade!
This year, we're inviting all participants to dress their dogs (and themselves, if they wish!) to reflect the unique 'purpose' they bring to our lives and community. Whether your dog is a loyal companion, a brave protector, a playful entertainer, or simply your everyday hero, this is your chance to showcase their personality, story, and impact. From service and therapy-inspired costumes to creative representations of love, friendship, and fun, the parade is all about celebrating the meaningful roles dogs play—big and small.
What does "Paws of Purpose" mean?
Every dog has a purpose. For some, it's providing comfort or protection. For others, it's bringing joy, laughter, and companionship into our daily lives.
Your costume can represent:
- •A real-life role (e.g. police, fire and rescue, medical and therapy)
- •A superhero (e.g. Thor, Wonder Woman, Batman)
- •Your dog's personality (e.g. 'Senior Sidekick', 'Exercise Coach')
- •A creative or symbolic 'purpose' (e.g. spreading happiness, community spirit)
So get creative, have fun, and let your dog's purpose shine!
Costumes will be judged on:
- •Creativity and originality
- •Connection to the Paws of Purpose theme
- •Effort and presentation
- •The story behind the costume
Bonus points for matching outfits or team participation!
Paws in the Park 2025
Calling all young dog lovers! Join our Kids Colouring Competition and show us your most colourful canine creations for a chance to win a prize.
We're inviting young artists to bring their love of dogs to life with colour, imagination, and creativity. Kids will receive a special themed colouring sheet inspired by our Paws of Purpose celebration—featuring four-legged heroes in one of their wonderful roles. Whether it's a bright and bold masterpiece or a carefully coloured creation, every entry is a chance to celebrate the joy, friendship, and happiness dogs bring into our lives. Prizes will be awarded for standout entries, and all participants will have the chance to proudly display their artwork on the day.
How It Works
Pick up a colouring sheet at the event (or download in advance), get creative with your colours and designs, and submit your masterpiece by [insert time].
Winners will be announced during the event!
Ready to Join the Fun?
Scroll up to learn about each competition, or use the register tab to enter now!