From the Best Baby to the Golden Oldie, RSPCA Isle of Wight has announced the winners of its One Fun Day Virtual Home Pet Show.
A panel of animal-loving judges – including Conservative Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely – had the difficult task of choosing the Isle of Wight winners of the nationally-organised RSPCA event.
Raising money for RSPCA branches around the country, the virtual pet show was designed to showcase people’s animal friends and the special bond they share – something that has become even more important over the events of the last year.
Winners of the Isle of Wight heat were:
Best Rescue – Sam (dog)
A seven-year-old Jack Russell, Sam is a lively, bouncy and adorable pet who was rescued by his owners six years ago. He has become an integral part of the family, and having overcome serious illness, represents everything a rescue dog should – showing strength and determination and bringing such joy to those around him.
Best Trick – Boris (ferret)
Boris was adopted from the RSPCA IOW branch last year and has been welcomed into his new home with lots of cuddles and attention which he loves. If there were Oscars for ferrets, Boris would win best actor for his range of theatrical antics. His owner says he is such a good boy and they can’t wait to learn more tricks together.
Best Friends – Daisie Mae and Stewie (dogs)
Jack Russell Terrier Daisie Mae and boxer cross Stewie have been friends for life and have an incredibly strong bond. The pair spend hours playing together, running and wrestling, but are equally happy to snuggle down on the sofa together and watch the world go by.
Earlier this year when Daisy had leg surgery and was confined to a crate during recovery, Stewie stayed by her side and keeping her company and watching over her, even taking naps by her. These two really are friends forever.
Golden Oldie – Winnie (dog)
Described as the soul in her owner’s home, Winnie- a Jack Russell/Border Terrier cross is the centre of the family, bringing joy to everyone from her owner’s two-year-old grandson to her 96 year old father.
Winnie was last in her litter and slightly shy, but from the start she had a glint in her eye, which remains to this day.
Best Baby – Alonso (cat)
An adorable three-month-old little boy, this blue-eyed beauty has a loving personality and brings great joy to his owner.
Best Lockdown Buddy – Ben (goat)
Three-year-old Ben lives with his sister Maisie but adores human company! He has been terrific company for his owner during lockdown, following them around and checking what they have been up to!
Peas in a pod – Touille (Syrian Hamster)
Touille is very special to her owner, who has never had a pet before. She is funny and sits and watches over her owner at night making them feel safe.
Described as her owner’s best friend Touille is cute and playful and a bit of an escape artist – but always comes back when she hears her food being served!
Prizes for the winners
Winners will receive a tour of the RSPCA Isle of Wight rescue centre in Godshill, a Wightlink travel voucher and goodie bags generously donated by Do It Broccoli, a vegan-friendly gift company based in Brading which sells unique, sustainable products that are ethically sourced.
Do it Broccoli is a keen supporter of RSPCA Isle of Wight, as Katy from the company explains,
“The centre undertakes such important work, with its staff and volunteers showing such care and compassion for the animals it looks after.
“We were delighted to provide prizes for their virtual pet show which we hope has helped to raise funds for their work and raise awareness of the support they provide to animals large and small.”
Recently been inspired to volunteer
Lily Morris who owns Boris, winner of best trick said,
“Boris is such a cheeky character and absolutely loves learning new tricks which keeps us both entertained! I’m thrilled that he won best trick and delighted to have been able to support our local RSPCA branch by taking part in the competition.
“I have recently been inspired to volunteer at the centre so have been lucky enough to see first-hand the incredible work the centre does to help animals both large and small.”
Pugh: Congratulations to our winners
Suzanne Pugh, RSPCA Isle of Wight branch manager, said,
“We received some wonderful entries and would like to thank everyone who took the time to take part. Congratulations to our winners, who look very content and happy with their human companions.
“All money raised from the pet show will go towards our work caring for animals in need. It is such a busy time for us at the centre with an increase in wild animals needing our help and we are also sadly seeing more pets coming to us for re-homing.”
To find out more information about the RSPCA Isle of Wight branch and its work – including details of animals looking for new homes – or to make a donation, please visit the Website.
News shared by Anna on behalf of RSPCA Isle of Wight. Ed
