Dogs, owners put best paws forward

The tall and the short in the show ring at the A&P Showgrounds on Saturday. Photo / Christine McKay

Spotted, striped, tall, short, long haired and smooth, they were all on show at the Ruahine Kennel Association's two-day Dog Dayz show at the weekend.

"It was a brilliant show, despite Saturday's crap weather," association president Tim Delaney said.

"Sunday's weather was wonderful and we've had lots of comments from people saying it was worthwhile coming to Dannevirke for the show."

Sue Jobey of Napier with Barkley, a national champion, which she owns along with Gary Neal. Photo / Christine McKay

There were 400 entries on both days, with competitors and their hounds stoic, even when the weather turned rough on Saturday.

Stacy Donaldson is a regular and had her 6-month-old standard poodle Dallas groomed and ready for the ring.

"He needs a lot of grooming, but during the week he's a beach bum," she said. And with his wonderful coat, Dallas was the warmest of all, Stacy said.

Also keeping warm and dry were friends from Wellington, Feilding and Waiouru who had hunkered down in their tent as a cold southerly swept the showgrounds.

But Mr Delaney said the weather didn't dampen the spirits of competitors, his committee or the judges.

"I've a fantastic combination of enthusiasm and experience on our committee, with some new members. They've organised everything perfectly.

"The judges from Sydney and Auckland thoroughly enjoyed themselves and the owners of Dannevirke's Destination Motel treated them royally. We had an after-show party on Sunday and everyone had a ball."