Quorn care home raises the woof

A care home in Quorn opened its doors to a host of four-legged furry friends for a barking mad competition.

The team at Care UK’s Lonsdale Mews, on Farley Way, spent a fur-bulous afternoon hosting the annual Lonsdale Crufts Canine Competition.

As part of the contest, residents’ relatives and their four-legged friends were invited to compete in a host of categories, including ‘Waggiest Tale’, ‘Fastest Fetch’, ‘Most Handsome’, ‘Prettiest’ and ‘Best Trick’. 

A paw-some panel of dog-loving residents had their scorecards at the ready to judge – and fuss over – the pooches that took part, with prizes going to Lucy the Cavalier King Charles, Alex the Border Collie, Otis the Labrador, Ozzy the Terrier Cross and Molly the Cockerpoo, who were named as the top dogs. 

Maureen, aged 90, a resident who had a dalmatian for 14 years, said: “I loved being a judge and seeing all the different breeds and characters. It was a difficult job, as everyone thought their dog was the best, but the dogs were very well behaved, so they deserved their treats at the end of the show!”

Toby Sturgess, Home Manager at Lonsdale Mews, said: “We had our doggy treats at the ready for the annual – barking mad – Lonsdale Crufts Canine Competition.

“Here at Lonsdale Mews, 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 encourage social interaction. Many residents had dogs in their younger years and this is a wonderful opportunity to encourage reminiscence of our furry friends and much-loved family pets.

“We’re thrilled to have hosted such a paw-some competition and would like to thank everyone that made the day so special.”

Lonsdale Mews offers full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite. The home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.