Man’s best friend: Labradors steal Multan’s first dog show

66 competitions were held in various categories.

MULTAN: As many as 40 dog breeds featured in Multan’s first dog awareness show held on Sunday.

The show was organised by HRS Kennels volunteer club headed by Usman Khakwani. Nearly 150 people participated in the event.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Khakwani said dogs were assessed on health, body statistics and beauty. He said 66 competitions were held.

“We want to encourage people to become more involved with their pets,” he said. “We also want to encourage a positive attitude to animals through such events.”

Duke, a Labrador, owned by Arsalan Mazhar of Multan, was declared the best male dog by five judges.

Dream Girl, also a Labrador, was declared was the best puppy and the best female dog.

Her owner, Maheen Omar, told The Express Tribune that she had not expected Dream Girl to be so popular.

“It is common to see people treating animals with cruelty,” she said. “Such shows are a chance for dog lovers to get together and share their experiences.”

District bar president Sher Zaman Qureshi distributed trophies and shields among winners.

Pointers, German shepherds, pugs, poodles, bull terriers, bulldogs and cocker spaniels were also spotted at the event. Some dog owners were of the view that people were afraid of dogs because of age-old perceptions.

“Dogs are extremely loyal and intelligent creatures,” said Mazhar. “Taking care of them is like taking care of children; it is difficult but worth the effort.
We need to raise awareness about the plight of these creatures.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 2rd, 2015.