Held in the
3 acre gardens at the care home, the team set up gazebos and umbrellas for
shade, water bowls for the dogs and refreshments and cakes for everyone to
enjoy. Family members were so looking forward to the event that some went out
into the garden early to make sure they had a seat secured at the front!
The morning
began with a parade, where each dog and handler walked around the garden and
introduced themselves before the judging began. Family member Pat, who has
experience in dog handling and has previously judged obedience at a variety of
dog shows, took on the role for the day and, being in familiar territory,
almost immediately settled into judging.
There were a
number of categories to enter, including Waggiest Tail, Best at Retrieving,
Gentlest Giant, Sweetest Small, Best Trick and Best in Show. Each class brought
its own moments of fun, with family members and visitors clapping, laughing and
sharing their thoughts as the judging took place.
Children who
attended also got involved by helping hold leads and walk the dogs in some of
the classes, adding to the family feel of the event.
Alongside
the competition, one of the most meaningful parts of the morning was seeing the
dogs and their handlers spending time with family members around the garden.
Whether stopping for a stroke , saying hello or sitting alongside them, those
smaller moments helped make the event feel personal and gave everyone an
opportunity to connect.
At the end
of the show, every dog received a certificate and a treat bag, and Pat was
presented with flowers as a thank you for her judging.
One relative
shared “Me & Jeep had an amazing time. Thanks to everyone & we're
practicing our tricks for next year.” Another member of the community said
“Thank you so much, it was great fun.”
Following
the success of the event, several visitors have already asked whether the dog
show could become an annual event at Sundial in the future, with some even
offering to help out. The Devon care home continues to build strong community
relationships while creating a home-from-home for its family members,
supporting them to remain connected, involved and engaged within the local
community.
If you would like to learn more about Sundial Care Home,
please visit: https://www.sundialcare.com/activities-in-care/
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