Pet charity, Blue Cross has announced the winner of their national school competition to design the ultimate dream house for dogs.
The top prize in the competition has been awarded to Brandon Toledo, age 11 from Brunswick House Primary School in Kent.
The national competition was open to children in Key Stages 1 and 2 and was run alongside Blue Cross’s partnership with the first-ever public exhibition and auction of artistic dog kennels in Britain.
The competition challenged schoolchildren to let their imaginations run wild and to design their own fantastical playhouse and in turn to learn the importance of compassion and responsible pet ownership as part of their every day learning.
Brandon’s winning ‘Mission X Dog House’ impressed a panel of judges, which included Cbeebies presenter and vet Dr Jess French, thanks to its sophisticated design and clear consideration for a pet’s needs.
The creative side of the design also caught the attention of the judges thanks to the miniature balcony, storage space for toys and wheels to travel around on.
Speaking about the competition, special guest judge and Cebeebies vet Dr Jess French, said: “By creating these doggy playhouse designs, children as young as five have been learning what a dog needs to keep them happy, healthy and safe. It’s never too young to start helping pet owners of the future understand how best to look after their beloved furry friends.”
Kerry Taylor, Education Manager at Blue Cross, added: “We are so grateful for every school, teacher and student who took the time to enter this competition. We hope everyone found it an enjoyable experience and recognizes that by taking part, you have helped us in our mission to ensure as many people as possible recognise the important welfare needs of pets across the country. “
Brandon’s winning design has been given a new home at the Blue Cross Suffolk Rehoming Centre for dogs, to enjoy while they wait to find their forever home.