THE world's first ever PET Paralympic-style event took place in Somerset over the weekend.
The Petsure Games were held at the Bath & West Country Festival, which ran from August 27-29 and saw hundreds of dogs of all shapes, sizes and abilities get their paws in gear for one of the most inclusive of animal sporting events ever held.
The Games was three days of barking mad furry fun, designed with world-class agility coaches to be suitable for dogs from all walks of life – healthy, puppy, elderly, disabled, or those with pre-existing health conditions.
From jump-less jumps to accommodate less-abled pets and a scent-based fetch for visually impaired pups, there was truly something for everyone at this 'ultimutt' event.
Special guests included doggy diva and Instagram sensation Puggy Smalls, while legendary commentator Henry Blofeld OBE swapped cricket for canines to give hilarious commentary, and TV vet Dr Scott Miller was on hand to give top-notch advice and present medals to the wagging winners.
One of the winners included Lola, 11, a three-legged Staffie from the New Forrest.
She was a rescue as a pup and then developed cancer in her foot when she was just two years old so, sadly needed an amputation.
She whizzed around the course, handling the Bone Bridge, Jump-less Jump, and the running tunnels with relative ease.
Claire Westcott, Ringwood (Lola’s human) said: "I have never seen anything like this, it’s just brilliant, so inclusive.
"We loved the fact Lola could get involved and enjoyed it so much."
Commentator Henry Blofeld said: "I have been involved in commentating on some bonkers things, but this really does take the doggy biscuit – such fun!
"Well done to all the canine competitors – each and every one is a winner to me."
COMMENTATOR: Henry Blofeld OBE
Dr Scott Miller said: "The Petsure Games are all in the name of fun and inclusion. They highlight the inequalities pet owners face while trying to keep their furry animals safe and well."
And Brad May, Petsure's chief marketing officer, added: ‘‘We launched the Petsure Games to highlight the injustices against pets with pre-existing medical conditions - Petsure will look to offer fair priced pet insurance to cats and dogs across the nation."
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