Softest fur category proves popular at pet show

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Oct 17, 2013

Dogs took centre stage at a pet show in Crowborough on Saturday, October 12.

Those on parade were all shapes and sizes and delighted residents at Heather View care home, in Beacon Road, where the show was held.

Most popular category was ‘softest fur’ where judges, chosen from residents, invited others to help them with the decision.

The dogs seemed to enjoy the extra attention as they were patted and stroked and eventually the honour, with rosette and chocolate prize, went to Lottie, a golden Labrador brought to the show by Carol Hobbs.

Other fun categories included best dressed, best tricks, waggiest tail and cuddliest pet.

The ‘most beautiful eyes’ award was won by Maude, a King Charles Cavalier spaniel owned by Emilie Watson, who organised the event.

A little bias could have been claimed because Maude was already a favourite of residents. She’s a regular visitor at Heather View and travels up and down in the lift on her own to call on the dog lovers.

All the animals at the show were well-behaved with the only barking coming from Minnie, possibly the smallest dog there, who had to make a special effort to make sure she wasn’t ignored.  Her shouts paid off because she was chosen as ‘best dressed’.

Some of the owners weren’t above calling for attention either and the judges couldn’t resist the pleas of Joanna Mellard when it came to choosing ‘cuddliest pet’.

And the prize was well-deserved. Joanna’s Affenpinscher Queenie spent most of her time curled up in the arms of Joanna’s mother Pat, who was one of the judges.

Emilie Watson, activities co-ordinator at Heather View said afterwards: “It has made my day seeing how happy our residents were and how much pleasure the dogs have given.

“It proves yet again the importance of animals in a residential care setting. Having a show like this also helps residents feel connected with the community and daily life.”