Not a cloud in the sky and sunny, warm weather blessed us at our recent 10th annual Township Dogshow in Mpophomeni. Almost two hundred entrants competed for 'top dog' at the uMngeni SPCA / Hill's Township Dog Show on Sunday 19 May, the oldest and biggest dog show of its kind in South Africa.
Golden boy Ranger, owned by Khanyiso Mbambo, won Best in Show, with Reserve Best in Show going to Skinny (who isn't skinny at all!), a Boerboel type dog, described by chief judge Adrienne Olivier as a "gentle giant", owned by Nonhlanhla Weli.
Ranger took top honours thanks to his friendly nature, lovely condition, well-brushed coat and the mutual admiration evident between him and his owner.
There were dogs of all shapes and sizes at the show which also definitely saw a greater variety of 'breed types' than we've ever seen before and the dogs were in great condition. It was heart-warming to see such a remarkable improvement in the dogs' health and well-being. There were also fewer puppies indicating the success of the Outreach Sterilisation Programme. Long time Judges and volunteers remarked that the handling skills of the owners were also much improved.
Before entering the show ring each dog was given a new collar and lead, all its details were recorded and then it was treated at an open air veterinary clinic where each dog was de-wormed, vaccinated against rabies and dipped. After a brief stop at the Education stand entrants were given light refreshments to eat while they were entertained by demonstrations of dog obedience and agility.
There were six classes in the show with every winner receiving Hill's pet food and a rosette. Ranger, the Best in Show and Skinny, the Reserve Best in Show, each won a cosy kennel donated by Howick F & F and Howick Cabins.
Parting gifts to all entrants included a dog bowl, blanket and premium Hill's pet food as well as magazines.
Heather Somerville, Deputy Chairperson of uMngeni SPCA said it was a very happy day, "Lots of smiling faces and wagging tails. The dogs coped well with such an unusual event in their lives. Many thanks to everyone who made this tenth anniversary show so special."
News kindly submitted byuMngeni SPCA.
Photograph: Reserve Best in Show winner, Nonhlanhla Weli with her lovely dog (Left), Skinny and Best in Show winner, Nkanyiso Mbambo with beautiful Ranger.
(photograph courtesy of Pierre De Villiers)