Having a ball – Windsor care home hosts very own dog show

A care home in Windsor has announced the winners of its barking mad competition.

Care UK’s Mountbatten Grange, on Helston Lane, hosted its very own edition of Crufts and invited local people and their canine companions to participate.

As part of the contest, members of the community showcased their dogs’ skills and good looks in one or more of the three possible categories: ‘Best in Show’, ‘Cutest Face’ and ‘Best Bark’.

Winners Benji and Brindle, both one-year-old chihuahua poodle mixes, received the ‘best in the show’ award for their good behaviour and great walking skills.

Sammy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, aged six, won the ‘best bark’ award for being the most vocal on the day.

Bella, shih tzu cross bichon frise, aged 7, and Milo, a 7-month-old border collie, both won the medals for ‘cutest face’.

The worthy winners, picked by a judging panel of residents, received personalised medals.

Betty Harris, a resident at Mountbatten Grange, said: “I love dogs for their company and cuddles. I unfortunately never had a dog when I was younger, I would have loved one. I thought the dog show was lovely, I really enjoyed it. I chose the dog that cuddled me the most as the winner because she was so cuddly and sat on my knee. Her name was Bella – I loved her little red dress.”

Debbie Winwood, Home Manager at Mountbatten Grange, said: “Our dog show was a complete success – we had so many different dogs at the home, it was hard to pick just a handful of them!

“We know just how beneficial animal therapy can be for older people, especially for those living with dementia, as being close to animals can help lift a person’s mood and stimulate social interaction. Residents loved watching Crufts on the television, so wanted to bring Crufts to them with our very own dog show and residents were thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of our judging panel.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our furry friends again soon.”

Mountbatten Grange has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite and palliative care.

To find out more about Mountbatten Grange, call 0333 220 4064 or email Customer Relations Manager, Tracey Van Zyl, at Tracey.VanZyl@careuk.com or visit: careuk.com/mountbatten-grange.