Dogs dress up for birthday

LOOK LIKE THEIR OWNERS: The peoples’ choice award, for dogs that look like their owners, went to Rhianna Hoskisson and her dog Poppy, a 10-year-old King Charles Cavalier, which also took out best dog with a disability, due to her having only one eye. Rhianna says Poppy is very friendly, craves attention and loves cuddles. Picture by Rebecca Grunwell

All sorts of pets turned up for Gisborne SPCA first birthday fun pet show at Treble Court.

One year ago, all SPCA Centres joined into one SPCA. Joining into one organisation means centres like Gisborne get more resource and support.

SPCA centre manager Lindy Magee said the day was a huge success, with 200 to 300 people attending.

There were 31 entrants in the show — 24 dogs/puppies, two rats, one hen, two guinea pigs, one lamb and one goat.

Master of ceremonies Walter The Wiz Walsh kept the crowd entertained with his antics and singing.

Tank and Rivah with owner Penny Bushell, Flo and Jacobi with owner Amelia Gower, and Halo with owner Adele Williams showed off their dog agility skills on an obstacle course. Adele and her dog Breaker did obedience, tricks and some doggy dancing in an awesome performance that wowed the crowd.

Live music was performed by Gail Hohepa Jasmine Taare, a bouncy castle was sponsored by Heart of Gisborne, while Lana Davy provided face-painting for the children.

The judges did an excellent job amongst the chaos that comes from working with animals, Lindy Magee said.