It may have been raining cats and dogs in London for most of the summer, but the final of the nation's favourite crossbreed competition, Scruffts, is set to shine at London's leading dog event, Discover Dogs.
On Sunday 9th November at Earls Court, the main ring will showcase over 60 wonderful crossbreed dogs, all hoping to become Scruffts Family Crossbreed Dog of the Year 2008.
In contrast to Crufts, the world famous dog show open to pedigree dogs, Scruffts caters exclusively for crossbreed dogs: a dog of mixed blood whose parents are of two different breeds, or a mixture of several breeds.
During regional heats, which were held across the length and breadth of the UK throughout the year, entrants were given a few minutes in the spotlight to dazzle the judges in the following four classes:
- Most Handsome Crossbreed Dog (6 months - 7 years)
- Prettiest Crossbreed Bitch (6 months - 7 years)
- Child's Best Friend* (6 months - 12 years)
- Golden Oldie Crossbreed (8 years or over)
*Handled by a young person between 6 and 16 years of age inclusively
First place winners from each of the regional heats have been invited to compete in the grand final, where a celebrity judge will take into account the importance of dog training and responsible dog ownership, and will judge the entrants on good character, health and temperament.
All competitors will receive goody bags, which will include merchandise from Company of Animals and Equifleece, as well as discounts at Royal Canin and Over Waterhall, an English Lake District Country House Hotel which is proudly part of the Kennel Club's ‘Open for Dogs' initiative. The Scruffs Family Crossbreed Dog of the Year, and the runner up, will also receive a three months supply of Yumega products, as well as other great prizes.
Caroline Kisko, speaking for the Kennel Club, said: "Scruffts is such a great way to enjoy time with your dog and family. As always, we're anticipating an exciting and fascinating grand final at Discover Dogs with thousands of dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes from across the country joining in the fun. We wish all the competitors the best of luck!"
Scruffts is run in support of the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which awards around half a million pounds worth of grants to benefit the canine world each year. Its mission is to promote the general improvement of dogs through charitable donations and helping to fund research into canine health problems.
The Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year grand final is just one of the great events taking place at Discover Dogs. The event, organised by the Kennel Club in association with Royal Canin, will be celebrating its 13th year of delighting dog devotees from all over the UK, with new and exciting attractions alongside a range of traditional crowd favourites.
Discover Dogs will take place on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th November at Earls Court 2, London, and is the ideal place to learn more about the pleasures of canine companionship, and all the other benefits that owning a dog can bring. The show is an interactive experience dedicated to every aspect of canine care, promoting responsible dog ownership and showcasing the diversity and talents of man's best friend.
To find out more about Scruffts please visit www.scruffts.org.uk, or to find out more about Discover Dogs go to www.discoverdogs.org.uk.
