Ranger and Skinny are township’s top dogs

Almost two hundred entrants competed for the title of ‘top dog’ at the uMngeni SPCA / Hill’s Township Dog Show in Mpophomeni (near Howick, KwaZulu-Natal), the oldest and biggest dog show of its kind in South Africa. Golden boy Ranger, owned by Nkhanyiso Mbambo, won overall Best in Show, with Reserve Best in Show going to Skinny, a Boerboel type dog, described by chief judge Adrienne Olivier as a “gentle giant”, owned by Nonhlanhla Weli. Ranger took top honours thanks to his friendly nature, lovely condition, well-brushed coat and the mutual admiration evident between him and his owner.

“Ranger and Skinny are both beautiful dogs with lovely characters,” said Lynda Horne from Hill’s Pet Nutrition, who has been involved with the Show for the past nine years. “There were dogs of all shapes and sizes, I definitely saw a greater variety of ‘breed types’ than we’ve seen before and the dogs were in great condition.”

Adrienne Olivier, founder of the event, says it isn’t about the number of entrants on the day but the long-term impact being made in the community. “This year was the tenth event and we have seen a remarkable improvement in the health and well-being of the entrants over the years. There were also less ‘unwanted’ pups running around, indicating the success of the sterilisation drive, and the handling skills of the owners are very good.”

Heather Somerville, Deputy Chairperson of uMngeni SPCA said it was a very happy day, “Lots of smiling faces and wagging tails. The dogs coped well with such an unusual event in their lives. Many thanks to everyone who made this tenth anniversary show so special.”

Before entering the show ring each dog was treated at an open air veterinary clinic (where each dog was de-wormed, vaccinated for rabies and other diseases and dipped), and given a new collar, lead, bowl, blanket and premium Hill’s pet food. There were six classes in the show with every winner receiving Hill’s pet food and a rosette. Ranger, the Best in Show and Skinny, the Reserve Best in Show, each won a cosy kennel.