Ipswich Dog Owner Returns to Crufts for Beardies in Need Charity

Shirley got Baggins, a puppy, from Germany. He had an accident needing urgent surgery at age five. The operation was rare. Only two dogs in the UK ever had it. Baggins recovered fully.

Shirley slept on the sofa for seven months. She cared for Baggins after his surgery then. The dog was kept away from her other dogs. He later won best in class twice at Crufts. Shirley said she cried from the support.

Baggins moved gracefully in the ring. He now has his veteran warrant. Shirley is 69. She has loved dogs for fifty years. She owns four dogs, Baggins included.

She started Beardies in Need. It saves and rehomes beardies in East Anglia. It has grown much bigger since it first started. The Kennel Club invited her to an awards show.

She was a runner-up for best rescue group. There were 3,000 nominations total. A Collie she rehomed even won best rescue dog. That made her very proud and very emotional!

Shirley focuses on charity work at Crufts this year. Eleven volunteers help her at the rescue stand. Crufts takes place from March 6 to 9. The event is at the NEC Birmingham.