A RESCUE dog from Alvechurch has just landed a top prize at Crufts, the world’s greatest dog show.
Gracie, an adorable crossbreed, was crowned Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year, seeing off the challenge of five other top pooches to bag the title.
Owner Alison Hitchins, of Redditch Road, Alvechurch, rehomed Gracie after she was found abandoned and heavily pregnant. She had given birth to six puppies at a Warrington rescue centre but, while they quickly found new homes, the mum was left behind.
“She had been dumped in a dogs home and I found her on the internet.” proud owner Alison said.
The six finalists were chosen at the Kennel Club’s Discover Dogs event last November. Gracie was the Golden Oldie champion and other winners to make it through to the grand NEC final included the Most Handsome Crossbreed Dog and the Prettiest Crossbreed Bitch.
Alison said she was delighted to be able to fly the flag for older dogs.
“I’m delighted to have won Scruffts as it recognises the value of crossbreed dogs and I am particularly pleased that it was the Golden Oldie category as this highlights the importance of older dogs.” she said.
“She was really good on the day. She doesn’t get fazed much and took it all in her stride.”
The dogs were judged on qualities including good character, health, and temperament with people and other dogs.
As well as winning the coveted Scruffts title, Gracie also won a year’s supply of food from sponsors James Wellbeloved.
