Cavalier puppy crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year
Sadie battled against nine 'paw-litical' opponents to win the most sought-after title in Scottish politics.
A Cavalier King Charles spaniel/poodle cross puppy has scooped the prestigious title of Holyrood Dog of the Year.
Eight-month-old Sadie entered the annual competition with Lothian MSP Jeremy Balfour and amazed the judges with her loveable personality and loyalty to her owner and constituents.
Dog’s Trust dog Georgie and Alison Johnstone MSP scooped second place while Monica Lennon MSP and her dog Cuillin took third.
Besides celebrating the unique bond between animals and humans, the Holyrood Dog of the Year competition aims to promote responsible dog ownership. Organised by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, the contest is open to all breeds of parliamentarian’s dogs, regardless of breed or political persuasion.
This years’ event took place on Tuesday (30 April) in the Scottish Parliament gardens at Horse Wynd, Edinburgh. Sadie battled against nine 'paw-litical' opponents to win the most sought-after title in Scottish politics.
The theme of this year’s competition was the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and how dog owners and non-dog owners can help. MSP's entering the contest canvassed for votes from the public before meeting the judges to share their dog's heroic deeds and acts of devotion.
On the judging panel was Dogs Trust veterinary director Paula Boyden and parliamentary liaison officer Richard Morrison for the Scottish Kennel Club, who both spent the morning with each entrant.
Proud owner Jeremy Balfour commented: “We’re delighted - it’s the third year I’ve taken part so it’s brilliant to won. It’s been a really fun day.”
Paul Boyden added: “The competition this year was fierce, but Sadie and her owner Jeremy Balfour MSP triumphed by making a strong impression, demonstrating their bond and commitment to improving dog welfare.
“It’s been a wonderful day celebrating all the fantastic dogs at Holyrood today; we would like to thank all the MSPs and the dogs for taking part.”
Bill Lambert, senior health and welfare manager at the Kennel Club said: “Congratulations to Sadie and Jeremy for winning the crown of top dog and owner at Holyrood today. All the MSPs and their dogs were worthy winners and the competition is a fantastic way to raise awareness of the issues affecting man’s best friend today.”
Image (C) Stewart Attwood.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
