OAKTREE Court in Wellington held its third annual dog show to the delight of residents, families and friends.

The ‘Scrufts’ dog show has become a regular feature at the home and this year it had more entries than ever. The dogs behaved impeccably and had a great time, to the delight of all the owners, who also behaved as well as could be expected.

The categories reflected the fun aspect of the day – Waggiest Tail, Best Biscuit Catcher, Most Disobedient and Scruffiest Pooch rosettes lined up against the Most Handsome Hound, Beautiful Bitch and Perfect Puppy, with the much-coveted Junior Handler rosette most keenly fought over.

The more sensible, sedentary dogs had a rest while the younger contestants had a go at the agility course. Enthusiasm was extremely variable for this part of the competition, some dogs preferring to water the obstacles, others throwing themselves at the course with abandon.

Despite the large number of dogs who joined in the day, not a single growl or whimper was to be heard and all the participants, including the owners, played beautifully together throughout the afternoon, sitting in the warm sunshine, enjoying drinks and snacks, all in good company.

The judge, Heather Mackenzie, was assisted by Hilary and Carol, with Christine accompanying the guest of honour, Poppy the Pat Dog, from the Pets as Therapy charity. Poppy visits the home regularly and is a firm favourite among the residents of Oaktree Court.

The final award went to Alex Vale’s Hungarian Vizsla Eric, who was awarded Best in Show. Andy Kirby, the general manager at Oaktree Court, was deeply disappointed with the results. “My dog was useless”, he said, “He didn’t win anything”.