The coveted ‘Westminster Dog of the Year’ title has this year been given to Labrador Rocky, who belongs to Labour MP Tracy Brabin.
Alongside his owner, the seven-year-old dog canvassed for votes from the public before meeting a panel of judges. This year’s competition, organised by the Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club, focused on the importance of training and behaviour, and the life skills these bring to owners and dogs.
Commenting on their win, Tracy Brabin said: “I am delighted to have won Westminster Dog of the Year with my terrific pooch Rocky. He had such a fantastic day, meeting all the other ‘paw-litical’ candidates and I’m really thrilled that he managed to wag his way to victory. I am very proud that he has been part of an event that promotes responsible dog ownership.”
Dogs Trust chairman Graeme Robertson, added: “We are thrilled with the number of MPs and commendable canines who competed for the title of Westminster Dog of the Year 2017.
"It’s always wonderful to see the bond between dogs and their owners, and Rocky and Tracy really stood out for this very reason, not to mention their ‘paw-litical’ prowess. I would like to thank the MPs and their devoted dogs for taking part.”
Leading the opposition in second place was beagle Bonnie, who is owned by Rebecca Pow, MP for Taunton Deane, and in third place, cockapoo Ted, owned by Maria Miller, MP for Basingstoke.
In addition to these awards, the competition also had a winner chosen by the public vote alone. This year’s ‘top dogs’ were Boomer and Corona, both border collies owner by Alex Norris, the MP for Nottingham North.
Image © Dogs Trust
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
