Canine heroes to be recognised

Last updated 05:00 26/04/2011

 

Search and rescue dogs which helped search for trapped people in rubble after the Christchurch earthquake will be among the canine heroes recognised at this weekend's national dog show.

All New Zealand dogs that have behaved in an outstanding way will be celebrated as part of the 125th New Zealand Kennel Club National Dog Show at Manfeild from April 29 to May 1. The dogs being celebrated include police dog Gage, killed in the line of duty in Christchurch last year, and the urban search and rescue (Usar) dogs.

Kennel Club's director and secretary Richard Brown said having the Usar dogs that performed so dutifully after the earthquake would be extra special.

"It seems the opportune moment to celebrate and focus on the urban search and rescue dogs when we also present a Canine Heroes certificate for Gage."

This year 2500 dogs are set to take the stage at the show for the judged events including breed, agility and obedience competitions. The overall winner of the main show goes to the world's premier dog show in England.

This is the third year the show has been held at Manfeild stadium.

The shows are traditionally staged in October, but this year's event was moved forward to April to avoid a clash with the Rugby World Cup.

- The Press