Polly Anna, a Shih Tzu/Poodle cross aged seven from Broadstairs in Kent has been named overall Best Bitch in the grand final of the Companion Dog Club Competition at London’s leading dog event, Discover Dogs 2009, held at a packed Earls Court.Renowned canine behaviourist, trainer and author, Annette Conn, who judged the competition, congratulated owner Jakki Mattingly at Earls Court today on their amazing achievement.
Polly Anna was crowned overall Best Bitch after winning the Best Rescue Dog category of the competition. She has spent long periods of her life in rescue centres after enduring a great deal of suffering. One family she lived with were cruel to her, and her tongue was cut out with a pair of scissors and she suffered facial disfigurement.
Jakki Mattingly said: “When we got her from the rescue centre she was so frightened and nervous. After coming to a loving family she was able to overcome her fear of children, and now works as a canine client contact, assisting adults and children as well with therapy sessions.
“She is a truly remarkable dog and we’re delighted she has won this prestigious award here at Earls Court.”
The competition saw hundreds of dog of all ages, shapes and sizes step into the ring to compete in a series of fun categories. The dogs are split by sex, with the girls taking centre stage today and the boys following suit tomorrow.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club spokesperson, said: “The Companion Dog Club competition is always one of the great highlights of Discover Dogs as it gives all kinds of dogs the chance to shine.
“In our new, bigger arena for 2009, I’m sure the contestants had a fantastic day and we’d like to congratulate Polly Anna and Jakki on their fabulous success with this truly remarkable story.”
To find out more about the Companion Dog Club, please visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/companiondogclub.
Caption: Jakki Mattingly with Polly Anna, named overall Best Bitch in the grand final of the Companion Dog Club Competition at London’s leading dog event, Discover Dogs 2009 For accompanying picture click here
ENDS
15th November 2009
