CELEBRATIONS were in order after a Droitwich-based dog food company had their pooch win a top spot at Crufts.

Fish4Pets on the Rushock Trading Estate is "immensely proud" after the dog they were backing, called Orca, became Crufts Best In Show winner.

The privately-owned business has spent the past 20 years pioneering a fish-based diet for all animals, and the Lagotto Romagnolo gundog, Orca, has been sticking to its products.

READ MORE: The Knapp and Papermill nature reserve entrance set to close

Four-year-old Orca (also known as Am GCh Kan Trace Very Cheeky Chic) was crowned top dog and has won the most international championships in the history of her breed. 

She has won over 40 all-breed Bests in Show trophies and is the first Lagotto ever to win Best in Show at Crufts. 

Fish4Pets says it's a fish-rich diet which causes perfect muscular, skin and coat conditions.

Reflecting on Orca’s success, Crufts Champion Co-Owner Ante Lucin said: "Orca loves food and is very motivated by her favourite fish treats during training. 

"Choosing a sustainable food source is very important for responsible breeders and trainers."

Orca’s triumph at Crufts 2023 has been said to mark a significant milestone for Fish4Pets.

The business has been growing since it opened its doors in 2004 and now employs more than 50 people from across the region and has recently opened a brand-new distribution centre in Redditch.

Orca's win, however, is not the first success of the business, and it was awarded the Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade in 2017.

READ MORE: 'Rare' white blackbird spotted in Worcester

Sarah Fowler, CEO Fish4Pets, said: “We are delighted for Ante, super proud of Orca, and immensely proud of the hundreds of Fish4Dogs champion Breeder Ambassadors worldwide, dating back almost twenty years.

“We hope Orca’s triumph will encourage more dog owners to consider a fish-based diet for their four-legged friends.

"A great quality protein, fish is packed with vitamins and minerals that ensure dogs are getting a totally balanced diet.

"The easy digestibility of fish protein helps reduce the growth of unwanted gut bacteria and can help dogs with sensitive tummies or older dogs with slower digestive systems.”