Bark in the Park–A Pawsome Day in Poundbury!
Updated: Aug 27
The Great Field was alive with wagging tails, happy families and plenty of excitement as Bark in the Park proved to be a wonderful success.
More than 120 dogs entered the six fun dog show classes, bringing together dogs of every shape, size and personality: dogs from 12 weeks old to Golden Oldies of 15; breeds from the always popular Cava and Cocker mixes, to Dalmatian to Bedlington/Whippet, and Rhodesian Ridgeback— a great variety of dogs!
The competition was friendly but enthusiastic, with the judges having the difficult task of choosing the winners from so many deserving entrants.
In each class, the three placed dogs were presented with rosettes, certificates and goody bags, giving their proud owners something special to take home and remember the day.
The Winners were:
Waggiest Tail: Bear (Golden Retriever), owner Charlie Flavell
Child Dog Partnership : Fergus (Labrador), owner Edith
Best Rescue: Simba (Spaniel/Dachshund), owner Michelle
Golden Oldie: Peggy Sue (Mixed Breed), owner Ashely Grant
Best Puppy: Rick (Staffie Mix), owner Antonia Groves
The Dog the Judge would take home: Maple (Cavapoo), owner Sandra Sheppard
BEST IN SHOW: The winner of the Best Rescue Class - SIMBA!
Away from the show ring, there was plenty happening across the field. Traders and stalls added to the atmosphere, while younger visitors made the most of the inflatables and children’s activities. It was very much a day for the whole family, including, of course, its four-legged members.
One of the biggest successes of the day was the grand raffle. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, organisations and individuals, there were more than 30 prizes to be won. The draw at the end of the afternoon provided a fitting finale, with prize after prize being handed out to delighted winners.
Bark in the Park was created as a fun community event, but importantly it was also held to raise funds for The Lexi May Trust. The tremendous support shown throughout the day demonstrated once again just how generous the Poundbury community can be.
A huge thank you must go to everyone who helped make the day possible: our sponsors, judges, traders, volunteers, prize donors and all those who worked behind the scenes.
And, most importantly, thank you to the 120-plus dogs and their owners who came along and made the very first Bark in the Park such a memorable occasion.