Virtual dog show at Bourne care homes finds a winner in Cocoa the pug-chihuahua-bichon frise cross

Care home residents became the judges in a ‘virtual dog show’ that culminated this week with a grand final in the garden.

The event saw people at The Cedars and Wood Grange care homes in Bourne select their favourite pets from photos of 27 different dogs brought in by staff and family members.

Once the top three dogs were chosen, they were invited to visit The Cedars off Church Walk ‘in person’ on Tuesday.

Tara Cross from Pampered Pooch pet grooming service based in Darnes Close, Bourne, had the tricky job of choosing an outright winner.

At the final were Joanna White with Cocoa the pug-chihuahua-bichon frise cross, Jan Pickersgill with Poppy the cocker spaniel, and Dawn Parrott with Chunky the Yorkshire terrier.

Tara then presented the owner with their prizes, which included a grooming session.

With the help of her daughter Leah, 4, Tara selected Cocoa for her “cuteness” and “good behaviour” despite being barely out of puppyhood.

Activities coordinator at The Cedars, Dawn Parrott, said the dog show had been thoroughly enjoyed by residents and had been good fun for staff too.

She added: “Residents haven’t been able to go out this year because of coronavirus and so we have arranged more fun events at the two homes.”

Later in the month two members of staff are due to take part in a 'Brave the Shave' event in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.