MSPs are set to battle it out over who is the Scottish Parliament’s top dog at the annual Holyrood Dog of the Year competition.
Organised by The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, the event raises awareness of the issues affecting man’s best friend today and highlights the unique relationships between MSPs and their dogs.
This year’s competition is all about celebrating the unique bond between humans and their canine companions and the positive impact that dog ownership can bring into our lives.
The event also encourages open dialogue on dog welfare issues, as well as providing an opportunity for MSPs to meet with experts to discuss all aspects of the canine world.
Judging will be held at the Scottish Parliament Gardens on Monday, April 29, from 10am. Judges will speak to the MSPs about key dog welfare issues and considering each dog’s canine clout before casting their votes and deciding on who will get their paws on the trophy
Politicians and their pups can try out a range of different exercises and agility with their dogs on the friendly ‘paw-sault course’ which includes jumps for dogs of all sizes, a short tunnel and weave poles.
We’ll then find out the winning MSP and dog, who has landed second and third place - and the winner of the ‘pawblic’ vote.
Here’s who is in the running - and why their MSP owners think they deserve the title. You can vote for your favourite here.
9. Jackie Dunbar and Fergus the Cocker Spaniel
The Aberdeen Donside MSP said: "Fergus is the most faithful dog I have ever came across, a rescue dog that my sister got when he was two, after having 4 owners before her. The dog we have now is not the dog we got 6 years ago, this is down to not only him but the work and patience of my sister." | Contributed
10. Paul Sweeney and Bru the Cavapoo
The Glasgow Region MSP said: "Bru is an incredible dog and companion. He is utterly adorable; he simply cannot walk down the street without people stopping to clap him and say hello. He is nearly three so no longer a puppy but maintains that youthful spirit. He is brilliant with people, other dogs, and children. He is an adventurer and doesn’t fail to have fun in the great outdoors. Bru is also known to support good causes, for example in November Bru took part in Marie Curie’s 100KM dog walk raising over £200 for the charity. Marie Curie is a charity which is close to my heart and that I proudly work with, and I was proud to see Bru take part in their fundraising efforts. Bru also attends local events in Glasgow and is a proud supporter of the Springburn Winter Gardens Trust (as seen in our photo) and the work being done to revitalise Springburn Park, which is his regular stomping ground. Bru is simply the best dog. He is loyal, cuddly, and loved by all. Even those who say they don’t like dogs (unbelievable, I know) love Bru, and warm to him in no time. Bru is a proud Scottish dog and would make a fine Holyrood Dog of the Year!" | Contributed
11. Emma Harper and her Dogs Trust Companion
The South Scotland MSP said: "I believe my Dogs Trust dog should be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year because we are promoting responsible countryside access, raising awareness of responsible dog ownership and, importantly, ensuring that all dog owners are enjoying Scotland’s bonnie countryside responsibly. We are also continuing to promote the key signs and symptoms of illegal puppy trafficking. I chose to have a dog that’s available for rescue because my most recent dog, Meg, is from Dumfries and Galloway Canine Rescue, and I know how fantastic rescue dogs can be." | Contributed
12. Marie McNair and Heidi the Biewer Terrier
The Clydebank and Milngavie MSP said: "Heidi is already a princess." | Contributed