Celebrating 90 Years of the Small Animal Show

Final Preparations are under way for the biggest Event in the Small Animal calendar. As Harrogate gets set to give a big welcome to more than 10,000 Small Animal lovers, this year's Show looks set to be the most impressive in its 90th year history. The dynamic, live Two-Day Event is packed full of hundreds of different breeds, amazing animal displays, and fun and informative talks and demonstrations.

 

Fanciers are looking forward to a show-stopping Event to mark the 90 year milestone. More than 3,000 Cavies, Gerbils, Hamsters, Mice, Rabbits and Rats, will compete for the title of Best in Show, watched by thousands of visitors. For the first time since the Show relocated to Harrogate, the line-up will include a Chinchilla Exhibition to encourage the keeping, breeding and showing of quality Chinchillas, a soft and spirited Small Animal.

 

For the first time in the Show’s history the Rabbit Section will stage a Young Stock Show, where Rabbits under five months will make their debut at the event. No doubt the baby bunnies will be a firm favourite with visiting pet lovers, while fanciers will get a sneak preview of the potential show champions of the future! 

 

Hare Raising Jumps

The Small Animal Show is also now home of the UK’s only Rabbit Grand National. Last year’s Show hosted the very first such competition in the UK attracting international competitors. Following its success, the competition is back and it’s bigger and better in 2012. The Rabbit Grand National, the entertainment centerpiece of the show weekend, will see Sweden’s finest rabbit jumpers return to hop over twelve hurdles up to one metre in height during a timed display of agility unique to the Show.

 

The challenge of designing jumps for the Rabbit Grand National has been thrown open to young designers and artists in a national competition. As well as encouraging interesting and eye-catching designs for spectators and challenging jumps for participants, the competition has showcased the event to new audiences. So look out for the winning jumps putting the high-hoppers through their paces.

 

In addition, a competition has also been staged to name the jumps. Taking a lead from the world-famous Grand National horse race, where the iconic Beecher’s Brook and The Chair take their names from the history of the race, each jump will have its own name chosen from the many creative entries received by show organisers.

 

Paul Threapleton, chairman of the BSLS Committee, said: “This year’s event is set to be a celebration not to be missed for Small Animal lovers. The Show’s continuing success is thanks to all the fanciers, young and old, who over the Show’s history have come together to compete for the ultimate honour of ‘Best in Show’. It’s the longest running and biggest Small Animal Show in the UK and this year’s Event will feature yet more new attractions as its popularity continues to grow almost a century since its launch. We aim to make our 90th Small Animal Show a magnificent milestone in the Show’s proud history.”

 

Spectacular Showcase Strip

The Show has established itself as a must do calendar occasion for fanciers and families alike. Whether you’re looking to compete, trade or just attend, it’s a fantastic weekend for people who are passionate about Small Animals. Alongside the rabbit jumping display there will be many other exciting activities to entertain and excite the crowds visiting the showcase area at the show. The showcase strip is fast becoming the entertainment heart of the show, attracting a fantastic line-up of Small Animal related events and interactive sessions and talks throughout the weekend.

 

Naomi Chatterley, at Burgess Pet Care, added: “We are proud to be part of the ongoing success of this spectacular show and are looking forward to making history as we celebrate 90 successful years. Last year was one of the most successful shows in the Society’s history with over 10,000 visitors and a sold out Trade Area.
As a company passionate about pets, we have pledged to help build on this success for 2012 and honour the shows 90th anniversary in style.”

 

Be Part of the Show

Trade Stand packages may still be available, starting at just £99. If you wish to take a Stand to showcase your products or services to Small Animal enthusiasts, please contact Paul Threapleton at pthreapleton@hotmail.com

 

For further information on the Burgess Premier Small Animal Show visit www.smallanimalshow.co.uk
or contact Michael Fox, BSLS Show Director, at michael@foxwood70.freeserve.co.uk