LAST week I planned to devote this week’s column to the issue of buying from puppy farms. I have been diverted from that, but will definitely cover it next week.
St Giles had its Spring Dog Show at Stoke St Gregory last Sunday, and it was superb in every respect. The staff who organised it should be very proud of themselves.
The weather was glorious, and dogs of all shapes and sizes and their owners attended. There were many stallholders, activities and some very tasty food and drink.
The three-piece band, ‘Aardvark’ was excellent, playing great classic music. The atmosphere was happy, and I felt everyone there adored dogs and understood the importance of the work of rescue centres.
A fair number of the dogs were adoptees from St Giles, but equally, many were from other rescue centres. It was heartwarming to see so many rescue dogs happy, healthy and loved along with their proud owners.
I met Xena, a charming American bulldog rescued by the RSPCA. She had been kept in a shed and used for breeding; the owner was prosecuted. Her ears had been cropped, and she was in an appalling condition. She still has physical problems, but is content and now lives happily with five ducks and 15 rescued sheep.
Manny, the Spanish Water dog, was rescued suffering from epilepsy and anxiety. Now she always has company and is thriving. She was brilliant in the Catch The Biscuit competition.
Kenny, a St Giles graduate, won the best Rescue section, and Bob the Romanian rescue did his owner proud in this category too.
I wish I could devote a whole page to the delightful array of dogs I encountered along with their proud owners. It was a merry day and I look forward to Funfest at Maidenbrook Country Park on July 12 when St Giles will be hosting the dog show.
Ella the beautiful, friendly 10-year-old Burmese cat longs for a home. Find more information at stgilesanimalwelfare.co.uk/adoptions/ella.
She requires a quiet home as the only pet. She is a little shy but is slowly gaining confidence.
Can you give this older lady her forever home?
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