A photographer has won the top prize in a 'wildlife' picture contest with a photo of her labrador's rear end as he dug on a sandy beach.
Annie Meeks' four-year-old labrador Bear was crowned winner for a photo of him 'having the time of his life' digging on a sandy beach with his rear end in the air.
Contest celebrates dogs in their 'natural habitats'
The Wildlife Photographer of the 'Rear' Award was set up by pet supplement brand YuMOVE to promote dogs' digestive health. Hundreds of owners sent photos of their pets in their 'natural habitats' across five categories, from The Wild to Urban Dweller.
Spaniels Scout and Fly were awarded second place for a photo of them head down sniffing over the fields, with a whippet named Pippa, off the lead on a sunny day, coming in third.
Award coincides with museum exhibition
The award coincides with the Natural History Museum's Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition that kicks off this week. The winning snaps were displayed on digital screens outside the museum in South Kensington, London, on Monday [October 12], before touring parts of London.
Dr Fran Blake, veterinary technical manager at YuMOVE, said: "If your phone has more photos of the dog than the kids, you're in very good company. We wanted to celebrate that but also use it to start a conversation owners do not often have. We pay close attention to how our dogs look but a happy rear end starts on the inside. Digestive health underpins so much of how a dog feels day to day and small but consistent habits make a big difference. Knowing what's normal for your dog is the best way to spot when something changes."
Advice for dog owners
According to YuMOVE, one in three dogs experience digestive discomfort at least once a month. The company's vets have advised owners on supporting their dog's digestion. Changes in appetite, energy or toilet habits can signal something is wrong, and owners should speak to a vet if they have concerns.
YuMOVE's top tips to keep your dog healthy include keeping mealtimes consistent, changing food gradually over a week or so, going easy on treats, knowing what's normal for your dog, and keeping them moving with regular exercise. Owners can find more practical advice via YuMOVE's PETSPAN Blueprint.
