Gwent's pooches prepare for Crufts (From South Wales Argus)

Gwent's pooches prepare for Crufts

7:00am Monday 25th February 2013 in News

Award-winning pooch Pippa will join top dogs at the world's largest canine show next month.

Former Royal Gwent Hospital nurse Jennifer Phillips, 41, is entering her 19-month Border Terrier for Crufts, which recognises our best four-legged friends around the globe.

Meanwhile, factory worker Denise Whitney, 50, is another devoted pet owner who will travel to the international show in Birmingham with her friendly 11-month Boxer Desmond.

Desmond has already qualified to take part in a Dog of the Year competition in Earls Court, London, next year.

Mrs Phillips revealed that looking after pets had become a passion, having spent her time breeding Terriers and entered Pippa into several competitions.

She has been named best puppy at Boston & District Canine Show in East Anglia, best Border Terrier puppy in Carlisle and also won a gong at the Ladies Ker

nnel Association Championship Dog Show in Birmingham.

Mrs Phillips, of Edward VII Avenue, Newport, said: "I've been to Crufts three times. It's quite exiting. The atmosphere is lovely.

"There is so much going on, there is something for everyone.

"I'm a retired nurse. I've done this hobby since.

"Border Terriers need a lot of attention, they need a lot of exercising, they're very lively.

"Pippa is very affectionate and has a lovely character."

More than 27,000 dogs are set to take part in Crufts 2013 in Birmingham between March 7 and 10.

Miss Whitney was able to enter her puppy Desmond after earning enough points at the Royal Welsh Festival Show in Builth Wells, Powys, last year.

The Unilever worker of Brynheulog Street, Ebbw Vale, said: "Desmond came second. This was the first show he had ever done.

"He's a happy and friendly dog."

Crosskeys dog owner Miss S Roberts will also go to the dog show with a Shetland Sheepdog.