THERE was much excitement leading up to the Kennel Union of South Africa’s Classic National Championships as children from Embo’s senior primary school, Inhlangano, were selected to train a group of Zulu Dancers to perform at the prestigious event.

Recommended by Inja Yethu, the leadership of Inhlangano Senior Primary School trained a group of enthusiastic learners. Held at the Shongweni Club, parents and educators created their colourful traditional attire.

The Inhlangano learners and teachers were awed to learn that they would be performing in front of judges from five different countries as well as all the top achievers at the show.

The KUSA Classic Nationals is the pinnacle dog event in the country for both breed and dog sport competitions. It is the crowning glory of South African Dogdom.

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Inja Yethu’s dog handlers from Embo and Madameni also attended as spectators so they could experience first-hand how South Africa’s ‘elite dogs’ are cared for, as well as being exposed to the vast array of breeds and sports available among dog handlers in South Africa.

One of the volunteers, Hazel Johnson, said that Inja Yethu aims to expand the children’s leadership skills and responsibilities through working with their dog.

“Inja Yethu strives to grow their handlers in every sphere, including possible career choices or holiday job opportunities. The learners were able to have discussions with Nathasha Hartman, physiotherapist of Equine-Librium KZN Veterinary Physiotherapy, Grant Smith of

The Smart Dog, who trains service dogs, among other disciplines, and Sara Duke-Norris of Muddy Dog Pet’s Deli and Accessories, as well as other representatives of products and services related to the dog world, were at the event.

“The handlers were thrilled to be offered samples to take home to their own dogs living in the township,” said Johnson.

Exhibitors from all over South Africa train for years and always keep their dogs in tip-top condition, feeding them the best foods, exercising their dogs regularly and grooming them for hours.

They attend many dog shows locally and throughout the country annually to gain the highest awards in order for them to reach the level to attend this national event.

This was a big event for everyone as the last KUSA Nationals held in Durban were in 2017.

The event was sponsored by Royal Canin dog-food manufacturers.

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