The Royal Kennel Club is highlighting the importance of dog eye health this summer as it brings specialist eye testing clinics back to The Game Fair 2026, taking place 24-26 July.
Visitors to The Game Fair will have the opportunity to have their dog's eye health assessed through a BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme examination, a specialist clinical eye test carried out by veterinary ophthalmologist Professor Peter Bedford. The examination can identify both inherited and non-inherited eye conditions, with the results recorded on an official certificate.
A new Royal Kennel Club survey of 2,000 UK dog owners found that 57% have never had their dog's eyes examined by a specialist veterinary professional, while more than a third (35%) are unaware that some eye conditions can develop before showing obvious symptoms. Perhaps most concerningly, more than a quarter (28%) also admit that they rarely check their dog's eyes for signs of a problem.
Charlotte McNamara, Chief Canine Wellbeing and Engagement Officer at the Royal Kennel Club, said: “Just as people benefit from regular visits to the optician, dogs can benefit from specialist eye examinations too. Routine veterinary health checks are an important part of keeping dogs healthy, but they don't always identify inherited eye conditions that may not show any obvious signs.
“An eye test from a specialist can help detect conditions early, enabling owners to monitor and manage their dog's health, while also supporting responsible breeding decisions that protect the health of future generations of dogs. Every test also contributes valuable data that helps us build a clearer picture of canine eye health across breeds.
“The Game Fair provides a convenient opportunity for owners to have their dog's eyes examined by a specialist while enjoying everything else the event has to offer, helping them take a simple but important step towards safeguarding their dog's long-term wellbeing.”
Owners must bring their dog's Royal Kennel Club registration certificate and any previous BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme certificates to their appointment. The eye testing area will be located next to the Royal Kennel Club stand (G1114), beside the Working Dog Ring at The Game Fair.
Eye tests cost £60 and can be booked in advance via the online booking form on the Game Fair website’s ‘What’s On’ page and via the Royal Kennel Club website.
Gundog activities
Visitors to the Royal Kennel Club stand can learn more about the organisation's gundog activities and speak to the team about how to get involved. From training days and working tests to field trials, the RKC offers a range of opportunities for owners, whether they are just getting started or already competing.
Become a Royal Kennel Club Good Citizen
Alongside its eye testing clinic, the Royal Kennel Club will also be offering visitors the opportunity to put their dog's everyday skills to the test through the Good Citizen Dog Training scheme Bronze Award.
The nationally recognised assessment celebrates positive, reward-based training and responsible dog ownership, testing practical everyday behaviours that help dogs become well-mannered companions at home and out in public. With no need to pre-book and costing just £5.00, the Bronze Award is suitable for a wide range of dogs, giving owners the chance to see how their dog performs while recognising the time and effort they've invested in training.
To take part, each handler must ensure their dog is wearing a collar with the owner's name and address inscribed on it or displayed on an attached ID disc, is microchipped, and that they have the means to clear up after their dog.
Heidi Lawrence, Head of Education and Dog Training at the Royal Kennel Club, said: “The Good Citizen Dog Training scheme is about much more than passing a test – it's about building a strong partnership between dogs and their owners through positive training and clear communication. Everyday skills, from walking calmly on a lead to responding reliably in different environments, help dogs navigate the world confidently and make life more enjoyable for both dogs and their families.
“Whether you've been training for months or simply want to see how your dog performs in a nationally recognised assessment, taking part at The Game Fair is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate your dog's achievements and continue building a positive relationship together.”
Event information
The Game Fair takes place at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire, 24-26 July. Visitors can find the Royal Kennel Club at Stand G1114, next to the Working Dog Ring, where specialist eye testing will be available each day and the Royal Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Training scheme Bronze Award will be running daily from 10am to 2pm.
Jannine Edgar, Chief Executive Officer at the Royal Kennel Club, said: "We are always delighted to return to The Game Fair and meet dog owners from across the country, and this year we're bringing some fantastic opportunities for visitors. From dog eye testing through the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme to the Royal Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Training scheme Bronze Award, we're proud to offer activities that support responsible ownership and help dogs live happy, healthy lives."