Perfect pooches parade at Saxonwood dog show | News

As the sun shone high in the sky on 19 May, we welcomed some very different visitors to Saxonwood care home in Battle, an array of beautiful dogs who were keen to take part in our Saxonwood dog show!

Many residents at Saxonwood love dogs and enjoy when visitors bring their dogs, after all we are a pet friendly care home, and families love visiting with their four-legged friends. We know that contact with animals, and dogs particularly, can help to improve the lives of older people, including those living with dementia.

In preparation for the dog show, many of our staff team helped with the plans. They took photos of their beloved pets and shared a short description of their personalities. Each resident was given a leaflet in advance with information about all the entries, which created a buzz of excitement and and air of anticipation around the home in the lead up to the show.

Soon, the day arrived and we welcomed a variety of pooches into the garden and allocated each of them a number, ready for the voting to begin! Each pup was called forward in turn to parade in front of residents who spectated from the sunny patio and lounge, and voted for their favourites.

Sigita, Care Home Manager said: “The oooh’s and ahhh’s were breath taking, residents’ eyes glimmered, and smiles beamed across their faces like Cheshire cats. The dogs put on a performance too, some just sat proudly and showed off their stature, others wagged their tails and rolled over in excitement.

"You could see from the resident’s reactions that this event brought fun and laughter to every single person. They enjoyed watching the dogs playing together and having fun in the garden. After the votes were counted we handed out doggy bags to the winners, full of treats and toys.

"Pets bring unconditional love, friendship, and fun to everyone they meet, our residents have expressed how much they loved this event. Some residents have even asked to have the photos of the dogs up in their rooms and keep hold of the leaflet so they can look back and reminisce about the day of the dog show and relive the emotions they felt.”

Florence, resident at Saxonwood said: “I miss my pets. I had a beautiful day looking at all the dogs, they were all well behaved. My favourite was the big black one, and little ones as well. We had lovely weather for the afternoon too.

Joan also enjoyed the day and said: “The doggies made my day, I loved all of them, but I have my favourite as it sat on my lap, so lovely!.”

This activity is part of our sunny moments activity club, where we bring an array of interesting sessions to our residents, to make sure no day is the same and to brighten their lives.