Our very first virtual Pet Pageant is complete and the winners have been announced. There were so many proud owners showing off their wonderful animal friends. You can still view the gallery of all the picture entries here – www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/galleries/the-pet-pageant/
Some of our winners got in touch and wanted to share their thoughts on the competition and why they decided to enter and help us to raise funds for the vital work we do.
Sue Tunaley – Roxy – Best Smile and Best in Show Winner
“I entered Roxy as I thought that photo taken at a family BBQ was perfect for the smile category. She is a lovely dog and has been with us for almost a year now and settled in with us and our other two dogs as if she had always been here – she is very well behaved and good with other dogs and people – her only issue is that she will jump on anybody’s lap with no warning and is often found on the kitchen table looking out of the window!”
Tracy Noble – Diablo – Extraordinary Exotics Winner
“I took part in the pageant as both my grandparents were patients in the hospice and I like to support the hospice in any way I can. Its not very often we get to show off our pets, especially our reptiles, so it was a great way to share our favourite photos. I never thought Diablo would win.”
Elle Harle –Willow – Mirror Image Winner
“Willow moved in with us about 4 years ago, she chose us to be her new family. Since then, she has taken over every nook and cranny of the house, discovered all of the best hiding places and found a place in all of our hearts. Willow enjoys lounging on the sofa, chasing her toys, as well as pen lids, and is always very interested whenever a drawer or a wardrobe is open! I wanted to take part in the pageant to show how much we appreciate the company and love that our pets give us.”
Charlotte – Howie – Youthful Youngster’s Winner
“Howie is an rambunctious 10 month old Goldendoodle who resides in New Jersey, USA. Often referred to as Howard when he’s being a terror, which is fairly often, Howie likes to bark at his neighbours, chew on cushions, and dig holes in the garden. We are thrilled that Howie won Youthful Youngster! He is our pride and joy and has filled our hearts for the last 8 months. Howie’s Grandma works at St. Elizabeth Hospice so we wanted to support them however we could, and we are glad he could be a part of it!”
Fryer Hadcraft – Iggy – Favourite Furries Winner
“I am so pleased Iggy won favourite furries category.
The reason I entered was because my granny who sadly passed away from ovarian cancer was looked after by St Elizabeth’s hospice in the final weeks of her life. She never met Iggy or his brother Levi (two minilop brothers) but I’m sure she would be very proud. Iggy is so well behaved and very clean and tidy, he can be quite shy but is very curious and so clever too! He always knows when I’m coming with his food. I am so happy he has one and I’m sure he will love some new toys to share with his brother Levi. Could you please send me the certificate as I am having troubles printing it. Thank you.”
Jessie Leggett (mother of Esmae Leggett) – Peanut – Junior Handler Winner
“Wow, that’s great news!! Esmae is thrilled!!
Esmae can’t wait to tell peanut the good news. They have been best friends for 4 years. Esmae has a genetic condition that effects her muscles so being able to ride ‘nut nut’ is amazing exercise and so good for her balance. We wanted to support the hospice because of all the support and care they give to families in need.”
Sadie Fairs – Rupert – Best Trick Winner
“I realised that as a charity, giving their services for free, that St Elizabeth Hospice may be finding it especially difficult to raise much needed funds during the Covid-19 pandemic. I thought the Pet Pageant sponsored by Christchurch Vet Referrals, Morrisons and Jollyes was an excellent idea to raise awareness of the important care the hospice gives in addition to raising funds via the entry fees.
Rupert is a 4 year old Shetland Sheepdog and is always into everything! He seems to enjoy doing his various tricks as much as his two daily walks with me and usually by the end of the day I have a happy and contented dog, ready for a sleep!
Well done to all those who took part. Congratulations to the other category winners. Rupert will be very pleased to choose something to spend his £10.00 voucher on!”