A fur-bulous afternoon! Wolverhampton care home hosts paw-some dog show

Care UK’s Foxland Grange, on Wergs Road, ‘raised the woof’ with its very own version of Crufts. As part of the contest, team members at the care home and residents’ relatives were invited to showcase their dogs’ skills and good looks, with residents also enjoying judging different categories such as waggiest tail, highest jumper, and most obedient. 

Eleven im-paw-sibly adorable dogs entered, competing in a series of challenges and a pooch parade to wow the residents.

Many were triumphant, receiving rosettes and plenty of fuss that sent tails wagging, including Toby, Poppy, Honey and Lola. 

Joining the judging panel was resident Derek Hutchinson, 98, who said: “The pooches were all so well behaved. I was so impressed with the commands and tricks the dogs were showing us. Ronnie was fantastic and very in tune with his owner – he was the winner of best in show. Along with Bonnie being most chatty, bluebell having the glossiest coat and Honey the most obedient.  

“All the dogs that participated had a fantastic talent. It was a pleasure to judge, and I would love to do it again soon. The dogs made me feel so happy – certificates were awarded, and prizes were handed out to all dogs that participated – they were very pleased with their treats!”

Katy Anderson, Home Manager at Foxland Grange, said: “We’re pleased to say our very own Crufts-inspired competition was a resounding success. We loved seeing all the amazing dogs strutting into Foxland Grange – they made it very hard to pick a winner.

“Animal therapy can be very beneficial for older people, especially for those living with dementia, as being close to animals can help lift a person’s mood and encourage social interaction. Many residents used to have dogs in their younger years, so they were thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of our judging panel and to meet so many adorable pooches. 

“Congratulations to our winners – they were paws-itively fantastic this year!”

Foxland Grange provides full-time residential, dementia and nursing care in a luxury environment, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, and also has its own café, hair and beauty salon and gardens. The building has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.