The Sands was filled with dogs, owners and families on Sunday, 27 September, as the annual Durham Dogs & Cats Home Fun Dog Show raised more than £2,000 for animals in need.
The free event brought crowds together for a day of friendly competition, with dogs of all shapes, sizes and personalities taking part. Money raised will help Durham Dogs & Cats Home care for animals that come into its service.
Classes for every kind of dog
The show gave owners the chance to enter their pets in a range of light-hearted categories. Classes included Waggiest Tail, Best Trick, Best Fancy Dress, Handsome Fella, Prettiest Lady, Golden Oldie, Cutest Puppy and Best Six Legs, which paired dogs with their owners.
Demonstrations, stalls and other activities ran throughout the day, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. The event was sponsored by the City of Durham Parish Council, while the Durham City Freemen supported the charity by allowing it to use The Sands free of charge.
‘More than £2,000 will make a real difference’
Dave Clarke, manager of Durham Dogs & Cats Home, thanked everyone who entered a class, attended, volunteered or supported the show.
“What a wonderful day for Durham’s dogs and the people who love them. We are so grateful to everyone who entered a class, came along to cheer, volunteered or supported the show. Raising more than £2,000 will make a real difference to the animals who depend on us.”
Mr Clarke said the event also helped highlight the work required to care for animals before they can be rehomed.
“A fun dog show brings the community together, but it also gives us a chance to talk about the work behind the scenes. Every dog and cat who comes into our care needs time, kindness and the right support before they can take their next step towards a loving home.”
He encouraged people inspired by the show to support the charity by volunteering, attending future events, donating items or making a financial gift.
“Anyone inspired by the day can get involved,” Dave said. “You could volunteer, support one of our events, donate items or make a financial gift. Whatever you can give, we’d love to hear from you.”
Support from Durham organisations
City of Durham Parish Councillor Carole Lattin judged one of the classes. She said choosing between the entrants had been difficult and welcomed the sight of families and dogs filling The Sands.
“Judging was a delight, although choosing between so many wonderful dogs was far from easy! It was lovely to see The Sands filled with families, four-legged friends and so much enthusiasm for a local charity. The Parish Council was proud to sponsor such a joyful day.”
Garry Dunnill, chair of the Durham City Freemen, said the organisation was pleased to host the show and make the venue available to Durham Dogs & Cats Home.
“We were delighted to welcome the show to The Sands and make the space available to Durham Dogs & Cats Home. Thank you to the charity for the amazing work it does, and to everyone who entered and helped make this such a great day for the city.”
Based in Coxhoe, Durham Dogs & Cats Home rescues, cares for, rehabilitates and rehomes dogs and cats. Its work includes veterinary care and helping animals recover physically and emotionally before suitable homes are found. The charity relies on supporters to provide animals with safety and a second chance.