A new “special class” has been created by the organisers of the annual Scruffs fun dog show to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the popular event.
Show organisers, Keswick Town Council and Podgy Paws Pet Shop, have included a new prize to recognise the extraordinary bond between young people and their dogs.
The class has been inspired by Leah Stephenson and her dog Dude who were regular participants in the best trick class at Scruffs for many years. Leah sadly passed away in 2018, aged 16, following a battle with cancer. Competing at Scruffs with Dude was a highlight of Leah’s year, and they were practising tricks even when she was eventually wheelchair bound.
Entrants will have up to two minutes to showcase their relationship with their dog. Examples of how this could be done include tricks, doggy dancing or obedience exercises. Whether the young person is a seasoned competitor or new to training with their dog in this manner, all are welcome to enter. Organisers hope this class will inspire the next generation to build on their bond with their dog.
Leah’s mum Wendy Stephenson said: “I am so pleased Scruffs are having this special class for young people this year.
“Leah practised and looked forward to Scruffs so much each year. It gave her a sense of achievement and gave her somewhere to show those skills off.
“I think it teaches a child love, care and responsibility. If your dog does something for them, it’s unconditional love and your child learns from that.
“Leah’s Scruffs rosettes had pride of place in her bedroom. She would have been chuffed to bits to know she has inspired this special class.”
The prize for the winner includes a one-to-one session with renowned dog trainer Jen Cartmel from Clever Dogs Dog Training and a £100 gift voucher for Podgy Paws.
Chris Harper from Podgy Paws said: “We are very excited to have this unique class this year to celebrate Keswick Scruffs’ 10th show.
“We really hope that this will resonate with lots of young people who will be keen to come and demonstrate what they have learnt with their dog, even if this is something they’ve never done before.
“Our dog show is great fun for people of all ages, but we really want to focus on the young people with this special class in memory of Leah.”
Dogs and their owners are expected to converge on Keswick from far and wide to take part in the show on Sunday June 29 in Fitz Park.
To enter email [email protected] or call into Podgy Paws. The new class is for children between six to 16 years of age (on the date of the show) and is free to enter.
