Teddy wins pooch parade and ‘sings’ Happy Birthday

A CAVAPOO won a Christmas pet parade held at the Nettlebed Creamery on Saturday.

Teddy, who belongs to 11-year-old Isaac Baker, from Sandhurst, was one of eight dogs that took part in the fun charity event. He won a hamper of dog treats.

Isaac said: “I am so happy we won — it was so much fun. Teddy is my best friend and deserves all the treats and belly rubs.”

The dogs were dressed in a selection of Christmas jumpers, Santa Claus hats and reindeer ears as they went on parade in the Cheese Shed, which serves toasties.

They were judged in a number of categories including waggiest tail, best trick and celebrity lookalike as well as best in show overall.

The runner-up was Hamish the Scottish terrier, who was said to look like Mr Bean. Owner Selina Craig, 53, said: “It was a great morning, full of fun for the adults but mostly the children.

“Hamish did great even if he was a little shy.”

Luna the West Highland terrier, who was said to resemble singer Taylor Swift, was third.

Her owner, Clare Bryant, 49, from Wallingford, said: “We didn’t have a place initially but a dog didn’t show up, so we booked our place last minute.

“I am so proud of our little Luna. It is such a fun, silly morning and all the dogs did great.”

Charlie the cockapoo won the waggiest tail category despite getting stage fright and having a little accident.

Owner Richard Woolway, 36, from Sydenham, said: “I am so proud. It definitely made a fun day out.” The judges were Cheese Shed manager Tamsin Riddell and Patrick Heathcoat Amory, head cheesemaker.

Mr Heathcoat Amory said: “It went really well and everyone enjoyed it. It brings people in and gets everyone in the festive mode.

“My highlight was when Teddy ‘sang’ Happy Birthday. The audience got involved and sang along — it was truly magnificent.

“We had lots of people, which was nice. Unfortunately, we had to turn a couple of people away as we can only handle about eight dogs.

“The dogs were all really well behaved but it only takes one slightly badly behaved one and then everything kicks off.”

The owners paid £5 to take part with the proceeds going to Hearing Dogs, a charity which trains dogs to support deaf people.