Bidhannagar Rajarhat New Town Dog Lovers' Association organised a dog show at the West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Belgachhia, Jessore Road on November 5 and 6.
More than 110 dogs entered the contest. Nupur Basu, one of the organisers, said: “We have been doing it for eight years now. It is good to see such a warm response.”
There was a special beagle show, apart from regular rounds like obedience show, a couple of all-breed shows, best dog, best bitch (group wise 1-11), best exhibit in show, best puppy, best minor puppy, best Beagle, best dog, best Indian breed, etc. Trophies were given away on the spot.
"The winners were Schitzu in the first ring, in the second ring it was American Staffordshire Terrier. The judges were Robert Smith, Ratan Sharma and Somenath Dey.
Some of the owners pointed out that there should be more rounds and categories for Indian breeds. “No one really bothers about Indian breeds. They are always kept on the sidelines. I think it is really unfair, since Indian breeds are no less than other breeds. This is a sort of colonial hangover among dog show organisers,” Soma Paul, one of the owners, complained.
Fun time
Stella, the two-year-old, was a delight to watch as she sprinted with infectious confidence all over the premises. She came along with a few friends from her neighbourhood and enjoyed a run in the park under the winter sun.
Pretty pie
Sundari the Shihtzu made everyone go gaga over the way she looked and dressed for the dog show. The accessories on the head made her actually look like a queen of on the grounds. Proud owner Rishita Kundu said: “She is two years old and loves to dress up. In fact, she enjoys all the attention that is showered on her.”
Having a ball
Jerry was a strong contender at the rings. The 18-month old loved to play with the ball and chased most other dogs resting in kennels around her. She loved walking around and interacting with other owners as well.
Naughty but nice
Cerra was very excited in the ring. She loved jumping into her trainer’s lap. The two-year old was one of the most active contenders at the show. “It is funny that she likes to sit quiet when my mother is around. She behaves really well with her. Otherwise, in her absence, she is her usual naughty self,” said her owner Rita Sarkar.
Ready to connect
Glory, all of 16 months old, lives with her owner Subhankar Basu and wowed the audience with her adorable habits. “Not only is she playful, she is also extremely friendly with strangers,” said her owner Sourav Pal.