Prize pooches went on parade as a Dorset care home staged its first ever community dog show.
Residents and staff at Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House in Blandford welcomed families, friends and four-legged competitors for the outdoor fun with all proceeds going to the home’s charity of the year, the Dorset Children’s Foundation.
Dexter the dachshund stole the show right at the start, winning the first category of ‘Naughtiest Dog’ by barking at the rest of the field.
The other nine categories included titles such as ‘Waggiest Tail’ and ‘Softest Belly’.
An obstacle course prompted much laughter as handlers directed their canine companions in a race to decide ‘Who Can Find the Treat Fastest’.
Whitecliffe House residents were fully involved in setting up and running the event.
They worked with the home’s gardener Joan Batchelor to create floral decorations for visitors’ tables and, on the day, prepared homemade lemonade.
Three residents – Lorraine James, Jean Peach and Anne Pitcher – formed the judging panel as the dogs began vying for glory across the various classes.
Lorraine said: “It was exciting to be involved, and I was honoured to be one of the judges.
“As a huge animal lover, I thoroughly enjoyed the show and look forward to the next one.”
Among the familiar visitors were Sheila Goodland and her therapy dog Millie who visit Whitecliffe House residents once a month.
Competitors were rewarded with doggy goody bags filled with toys and gourmet treats sorted and prepared by residents using kind donations from Tesco and nearby pet shop Pets Corner.
Home Manager Helen Chapman said: “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day, with many fits of laughter as dogs and owners navigated the obstacle course.
“We received huge amounts of positive feedback and look forward to welcoming everyone back next year.”
In a note to the home, one relative, J Latham, wrote: “Thank you very much for the dog show. It was a great event.
“The fish and chip lunch was delicious and much appreciated. Thanks very much to the chef.
“The dogs have also really enjoyed their doggy bags. I can’t get the ball away from Molly.”
