Round of ap-paws – Banbury care home hosts dog show

Home news

Apr 07, 2021

A care home in Banbury has announced the winners of its barking mad competition.

Care UK’s Highmarket House, on North Bar Place, hosted its very own edition of Crufts.      

As part of the virtual contest, locals were invited to showcase their dogs’ skills and good looks in one or more of the seven possible categories: ‘Cutest puppy’, ‘Best fancy dress’, ‘Best veteran’, ‘Best action photo’, ‘Most handsome male’, ‘Prettiest female’ and ‘Happiest hound’. An overall ‘best in show’ winner was also chosen.

The crown went to Peaches, a two-year-old Cocker Spaniel – on top of being named ‘best in show’, she was also the joint winner of ‘Best fancy dress’ thanks to her adorable looks.

The worthy winners, picked by a jury of residents, received dog biscuits specially made by residents as well as dog bandanas, rosettes and toys.  

Jo Pohl, Home Manager at Highmarket House, said: “We’re pleased to say our first-ever virtual dog show was a resounding success – we received so many wonderful pictures of the local poochies it was hard to pick just a handful of them.

“We know just how beneficial animal therapy can be for older people, especially for those living with dementia, as being close to animals can help lift a person’s mood and stimulate social interaction. With current restrictions in place, a virtual pet competition seemed like the next best thing, and residents were thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of our judging panel.

“We’re looking forward to next year’s edition of our very own Crufts – hopefully in person this time!”

Highmarket House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, dementia, nursing and short-term respite care. The home, which features 73 en-suite bedrooms, has been designed to enable its residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café.

For more information email Customer Relations Manager, Paul Clarke, on paul.clarke@careuk.com or call 01295 297 652.

For more general information, visit careuk.com/highmarket-house