Purr-fect opportunity

Bondholder Treetops Hospice Care has launched a fun competition to recognise the positive impact pets are having on people's mental health during lockdown.

The charity is taking entries from animal lovers who want to show off their pampered pets to the world. It follows the announcement that their popular Vintage Fair and Dog Show, which is held every autumn, has been postponed due to coronavirus.

There are seven categories in the just-for-fun competition, which is open to pets of all shapes and sizes. They are ‘Funniest Pet Video’, ‘Not A Cat or Dog’, ‘Fancy Dress’, ‘Weirdest Sleeping Position For a Pet’, ‘Best Trick’, ‘Looks Most Like Owner’, and ‘Happy Families’ – unexpected friendships which have blossomed between animals or their owners.

The competition is running from Monday 29 June onwards, with each category being open for two days.

The winner is decided by the number of ‘likes’ it receives on Treetops Facebook and Instagram social media channels, with each category winner going through to a Champion-of-Champions grand finale on Wednesday 15 July.

Cheryl Morris, Treetops community fundraiser, said: “We recognise that pets have helped people cope during lockdown and had a positive impact on mental health. Pets can be very calming when we’re going through anxious times and provide focus and purpose – especially important for our more vulnerable and isolated patients.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the variety of animals – and the talents which they have – from our followers.”

Treetops is doing all it can to continue to support those in most need. However the charity predicts a huge loss in income in the coming months, due to the temporary closure of all their charity shops, and postponement or cancellation of many fundraising events. The hospice launched an Emergency Appeal earlier this year – please click here for more details.