A photographer has claimed the top prize in a 'wildlife' photography competition by capturing the rear end of her labrador as he dug away on a sandy beach.
Annie Meeks' four year old labrador, Bear, was crowned the winner for a snapshot of him 'having the time of his life' digging on a sandy beach, his rear end proudly in the air. The Wildlife Photographer of the 'Rear' Award was established by pet supplement brand YuMOVE to promote dogs' digestive health.
Hundreds of entries across five categories
Hundreds of owners submitted photos of their pets in their 'natural habitats' across five categories, ranging from The Wild to Urban Dweller.
Spaniels Scout and Fly snagged second place, captured head down for a sniff across the fields, while a whippet named Pippa, enjoying a sunny day off the leash, came in third.
Exhibition outside Natural History Museum
The award coincides with the Natural History Museum's Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, which launches this week. The competition's winning photographs were displayed on digital screens outside the museum in South Kensington, London, on Monday [October 12], before embarking on a tour of parts of London.
Dr. Fran Blake, veterinary technical manager at YuMOVE, commented: "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."
Digestive health advice for owners
"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."
One in three dogs experience digestive discomfort at least once a month, according to YuMOVE. The company's veterinary team has provided guidance for owners on how best to support their dog's digestion including shifts in appetite or bathroom habits.
Top tips to keep dogs healthy
YuMOVE's top tips include keeping consistent with scheduled mealtimes and a steady diet, changing food gradually over a week, going easy on treats, knowing what's normal for appetite and toilet habits, and keeping dogs moving with routine exercise.
Owners can find more practical advice on supporting their dog's digestion and wider wellbeing.
