Dalmatian show just knocks the spots off the competition
IT could have been a scene straight out of the much-loved movie when over 100 Dalmatians took centre stage at the North of England Dalmatian Club's Madge Cull Fun Day.
The spectacular event, which took place in warm autumn sunshine at the Lady Margaret Hall on the Welbeck Estate, focussed on one of the most recognisable and much-loved breeds of dogs.
Spokesman Leanne Richardson said it was a fantastic day which raised money for Dalmatian Welfare to help the eventual re-homing of dogs that had been treated badly or become unwanted.
“Unfortunately a lot of people buy a Dalmatian not realising how demanding they can be,” she said.
“They then end up in care until a new home can he found for them.”
“Dalmatians are not the easiest dogs to own. They like being close to people and resent being left alone. And they need lots and lots of exercise.”
“In some respects the film 101 Dalmatians has led people into buying one, when they would have been more suited to a different breed, and that can result in heartaches all round.”
The afternoon’s fun was split into competitions such as sausage race, waggiest tail, most handsome dog and prettiest bitch, together with an all-day agility ring and have-a-go fly ball.
Special guests were behaviourist Martin Stubbs and Rebecca Croft from Paws Training, who were at the agility ring to help visitors around the course and answer behaviour questions.
Mrs Richardson said that the dogs’ traditional role was always to run alongside the carriages and protect the travellers from highwaymen.
Interestingly, a big percentage of the dogs at the show were rescue dogs, proving that with love and patience the past can be forgotten.
As well as a raffle, stalls and attractions, the day gave Dalmatian owners the chance to meet with other owners and exchange their favourite dog stories.
Added Leanne: “The biggest job was to try and count accurately how many dogs had turned up. But I soon gave it up as a bad job, as all I could see was spots!”
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Weather for Worksop
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 23 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 22 mph
Wind direction: East
