Show for pups, pooches, mutts

Sterkloop Tackle and Pet Shop on Saturday hosted a dog show which catered for all sizes and sorts.
Whether you had a puppy or a really big dog, a very obedient dog, an old dog or a beautiful dog or one with the most appealing eyes or the waggiest tail, or even if you and your pet looked alike, there was a category in which you could participate with your best friend.
Stella de Jager, owner of Sterkloop Tackle and Pet Shop said the show was held by popular demand. Sterkloop Tackle and Pet Shop held a dog show two years ago, and decided to do so again after many people asked when they will present a show again. Attractive prizes were offered in each category. She is also contemplating holding another show in October, more for smaller breeds of dogs.
The dog of the day was chosen from the winners of the ten categories, and just to show that experience counts, the title went to Ounooi, a nine-year old Labrador belonging to Louise van Rooyen. Ounooi used to be a rescue dog.
The show was presented in conjunction with the Limpopo K-9 Academy, which offers classes in socialisation, basic obedience, obstacles and protective training. One of the co-owners and instructors, Jenny Venter said owners only have to invest a little time in their pets to have an obedient pet with which a strong bond is forged.
“The reason why so many pets eventually end up in shelters is because they were not trained, and then can become a nuisance,” she said. She said the dogs most often brought to be trained are German Shepherds and Rottweilers. Puppies can be trained as from ten weeks old and dogs can be trained up to competition level, when they can be taken to shows countrywide.

Featured Photo: Some dogs were a bit apprehensive about others who looked a bit aggressive and looked up to their owners for support.

NELIE ERASMUS
>>nelie.observer@gmail.com