STAFF at Pets Barn Veterinary Centre, Longhope have been scooping up prizes with their own pets.
All relative newcomers to their chosen competitions, they have been beating more experienced owners and are delighted at their success.
Head nurse Maria Andrews' 3-year-old rescued Springer Spaniel, Luther, has been trained in dog agility for just less than a year and his recent successes include beating some of the top dogs in the county.
Maria says: "Luther was not easy to start with, because he obviously felt insecure, his habits included chewing things like milk bottles, but he loves to be doing something and he really enjoys his agility."
Practice manager Mandy Williams actually bred her own horse, now a two-year-old, named Jubilee Fern. She showed her in-hand for the first time this year and has gained two seconds, two thirds and reserve champion filly at three major shows.
"I am really pleased that some of the country's top judges have awarded her prizes – and that I am not the only one who thinks she is beautiful," she said.
Vet nurse Sarah Langley bought her horse, Georgio, only last year, but she has already notched up a handful of prizes.
She won the Discovery class – for horses that are new to showjumping – at Usk Show last Saturday, and has several second and third prizes under her saddle.
"Georgio loves jumping, although he is only five years old, and he has plenty of time to make a top class show jumper," she said.
All three girls work full-time, juggling careers and families with their interests.
Mandy says: "We are all lucky to have support from families and partners. It means early mornings, and lots of hard work and dedication, but when you achieve these results, it makes it all worthwhile."
Pets Barn owner, Nick Horniman, is very pleased the girls have all done so well. "They all work very hard at the practice. I wish them all success for their future competitions," he said.