Bournemouth care home resident becomes VIP judge at charity dog show

A Bournemouth care home resident was treated like a VIP for an afternoon when his special novelty dog show wish came true.

David, who lives at Talbot View care home on Ensbury Avenue, was invited to be the guest of honour at the ‘Dazzling Dog Show’ during Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s Muddy Dog Dash. The dog-themed charity event, held at Avon Heath Country Park, featured an obstacle course and concluded with the dog show. The special experience was arranged in response to David sharing his request as part of the home’s ‘Make a Wish’ initiative. The scheme encourages residents to talk about hobbies and passions they can no longer pursue independently, which the care team then helps bring to life safely.

The Talbot View team spoke to the Lewis-Manning Hospice Care team about David’s wish, who then invited David to join their Dazzling Dog Show as a VIP judge. On the day, David assisted Clare Gallie, CEO of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and Kirsty Everard from Kirsty’s Paws Dog Training, who judged many categories on the day including ‘Waggiest Tail’, ‘Best Trick’, and ‘Best Fancy Dress’. The dogs and their owners took turns to parade in front of the residents to show off their costumes, skills and personalities.

David said: “I used to be a beekeeper and they always used to hold a fun dog show at the end of the season’s beekeeping shows. I just thought that it would be fun to judge and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I had a really nice time and it took me back to watching ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ on the TV.”

Suzanne Kaye, Home Manager at Talbot View, said: “David was in his element on the day as he chatted to the owners and their dogs before choosing the worthy winners and presenting rosettes. It was lovely to make his wish come true and see the smile on his face as he played a key role in the event.”

This was the second Muddy Dog Dash organised by Lewis-Manning Hospice Care this year with the first taking place at Upton Country Park in March. Care South is proud to support Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, which provides support to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across East Dorset.

Clare Gallie, CEO of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome David as our guest of honour at the Dazzling Dog Show. Seeing him so engaged and enjoying every moment reminded us why these events are so special. It's not just for the dogs and their owners, but for everyone involved. We are delighted that we could help to make his wish come true with the support of the Talbot View team."

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