Organised by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, Holyrood Dog of the Year (HDOTY), is open to dog-loving MSPs and their canine companions of all ages, breeds, shapes and sizes - pedigree and crossbreed alike.
The pooches will be put through their paces at a “puppy paw-sault course” in the Scottish Parliament Gardens on Monday, May 26, before the winner of the public vote is announced
The competition celebrates the unique bond between dogs and their owners. With continued concern over the rising cost of living, and more dog owners in Scotland than ever before, this year’s competition is all about the cost of living and the mental health benefits of dog ownership.
To ensure pet owners are aware of what both organisations are doing to help support them during the ongoing cost of living crisis, representatives will be highlighting some of the advice they offer and how best MSPs can use this information to help concerned constituents continue to provide for their beloved dogs.
Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, said: “Our thanks to all MSPs and parliamentary pooches taking part in Holyrood Dog of the Year, an event open to members and dogs of any pawlitical persuasion. It’s a chance for politicians to recognise the human-canine bond and how dogs make a huge impact on our lives during tough times. Sadly, these are tough times – enquiries to Dogs Trust to support pet owners faced with the rising cost of living continue to be at an all-time high – and we want to work with MSPs to support their constituents who may need extra help to make sure their pet remains part of their family.”
Here are all the candidates - you can cast your vote here.
9. Mark Ruskell and Joy
Mid-Scotland & Fife MSP Mark Ruskell said: "Joy would love to use the Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023 event as an opportunity to raise awareness of key animal welfare challenges linked to greyhound racing in Scotland and advocate for the rights of fellow racing greyhounds." | Contributed
10. Emma Harper and Maya
South Scotland MSP Emma Harper said: "Maya had a very difficult start in her first year – lack of exercise and housebound. We adopted Maya after the first year and had a lot of behaviour and food issues to address. With lots of exercise, time and attention with human interaction she learned very quickly and shows us all how all dogs can be great dogs enhancing and enriching our lives." | Contributed
11. Evelyn Tweed and Marley
Stirling MSP Evelyn Tweed said: "Mar was quite a stressed dog when we picked him up from the rescue centre in Dumfries & Galloway. He would chew things (including my husband’s favourite armchair!) and eat basically anything. The first day home with us, he managed to get into the bag of food the rescue centre had given us for three days and he eat the whole lot in one go! We had to clear the kitchen of food as he would eat everything (one example is a whole load my husband had just baked!). He has been a brilliant addition to our family and has settled into being an amazingly happy, content dog who has provided us with lots of love and happiness." | Contributed
12. Alison Johnstone and her Dogs Trust companion
Lothian MSP Alison Johnstone said: "We are a great team and we will make sure that Dogs Trust dogs have every opportunity to help raise awareness, increase support and find a new and suitable home. When spectators see us together, they will explore adopting a Dogs Trust dog!" | Contributed