SIBONGISENI MAPHUMULO
The inaugural Kenton Krufts Dog Show took place last weekend September 28 bringing together dog lovers and their furry friends for a fun-filled day of competition, community spirit, and raising funds for Eku Paws, an initiative aimed at promoting dog and human education. Organised by Merryl Flynn, the event attracted an array of participants, sponsors, and supporters, all eager to showcase their dogs and contribute to a worthy cause.
The highlight of the day was the competitive categories, where dogs of all shapes, sizes, and talents vied for top honours. From the waggiest tail to the best rescue, the show had something for everyone. The esteemed panel of judges added prestige to the event. They included internationally acclaimed bronze sculptor Bruce Little, who selected the Best in Show winner. Other judges included Ashleigh Hart-McCafferty, a qualified companion animal behaviour consultant, Verona Veltman from Domestic Animal Care Kenton, Dr Marette Dreyer from Kariega Veterinary Clinic, and Lindy Sutherland, director of the Kariega Foundation.
Bruce Little, well-known for his wildlife sculptures, brought his discerning eye to the Best in Show category, while Ashleigh Hart-McCafferty’s expertise in animal behaviour helped ensure that the dogs’ emotional well-being was a priority. Verona Veltman’s passion for mass-sterilisation programs in local areas, such as Marselle and Ekuphumleni, resonated with the cause of the event, and Dr Marette Dreyer’s wealth of experience as a vet ensured the participants were judged fairly and compassionately. Lindy Sutherland, with her extensive background in conservation and community initiatives, rounded off the judging panel with her deep commitment to animal welfare.
Bruce Little also donated the first prize, a bronze sculpture of a dog. An avid animal lover, Little explained that his passion for animals led him to contribute to the show. “I’m an animal lover, that’s why I spend most of my time on animal fundraising events,” he said, reflecting his deep connection to wildlife and his commitment to animal welfare.
The Kenton Krufts Dog Show enjoyed the support of local businesses and sponsors. The Periwinkle Charity Trust backed the dog-owner training programme, which aims to enhance the welfare of dogs in the community. Additional support came from Virbac South Africa, Kenton Primary School who hosted the event, and Round Table Alex Kenton 210, who handled online ticket sales and public liability insurance.
The Kariega Foundation’s Joné Haesslich and Malibongwe Mangele helped spread the word about the dog show to the local community. Mangele and three other volunteers from the Kariega Foundation assisted with prize distribution, raised boards, and recorded results throughout the day.
Local businesses also played a crucial role, with vouchers donated by Kenton Butchery, Dilly Deli, Kenton Bakery, Sunshine Coast Spar and Volo, along with practical support from Build It and Canon Plant & Tool Hire, Sassy Dog Parlour and Sergio Baartez Photography.
PICTURES: SIBONGISENI MAPHUMULO
The event was a day of celebration for all participants, but some dogs stood out with their charm and talent. Here are the winners in each category (surnames not supplied):
Waggiest Tail
1st: Simthandile with Jacky
2nd: Dave for Mandy with Sadie
3rd: Rowene with Bella
Beach Bum
1st: Elsa with Dino
2nd: Hope & Lozya with Muis
3rd: Hennie with Butcher
Best Dressed
1st: Shaye with Pippa
2nd: Janke with Sokkies
3rd: Elsa with Pebbles
Best Rescue
1st: Shadrak Swarts with Chocolate
2nd: Paul with Silvie
3rd: Elsa with Charlie
Youngest Handler
1st: Ayla with Oliver
2nd: Mienke with Vlooi
3rd: Princess with Bolt
Looks Most Like Owner
1st: Karen with Odie
2nd: Cate with Ariana
3rd: Ros with Spencer
Best in Show
Shadrak Swarts with Chocolate.
Swarts shared his feelings that he is happy that Chocolate was named Best in Show.
“I’m very proud and happy for him to get two 1st places of being Best in a Show and Best Rescue. He is a rescue from Marselle his owner left him there that is how I found him and took him here at Kenton because I live here,” Swarts said.
“A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the volunteers, including those from the Kariega Foundation, who ensured the smooth running of the event. Thanks to the incredible community support, all proceeds from the Kenton Krufts Dog Show will benefit Eku Paws’ education and animal welfare programmes,” said Flynn. “With such a successful debut, the Kenton Krufts Dog Show promises to be a yearly tradition, bringing joy to both dogs and their owners while supporting a meaningful cause.”
The Kenton Krufts Dog Show was not only a successful fundraiser but also a joyous event for everyone involved. Families, spectators, and participants alike enjoyed the fun-filled day, with laughter and smiles all around. The dogs, too, seemed to revel in the excitement, wagging their tails and showing off their best tricks. It was a heartwarming day of community bonding, with both people and their pets leaving the event happy and fulfilled.
- This article was first published in Talk of the Town, October 3, 2024. The newspaper serving the communities of Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast, with a weekly wrap of Makhanda news, is available at stores from early on Thursdays.
