Victoria Tower Gardens, alongside the Houses of Parliament, was the venue for the 20th annual Westminster ‘Dog of the Year’ competition. Twenty-four canine competitors, all owned by MPs or Members of the House of Lords competed for the title.
In order to highlight the excellent work of the RSPCA animal rehoming centre in Godshill and the plight of dogs looking for a permanent home, the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, entered Buster, a four year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier who has been at the home for several months.
The competition is more than just light-hearted rivalry between MPs. It celebrates the unique bond between man and dog and promotes responsible dog-ownership and canine welfare.
Mr Turner said:
“Buster was very well behaved, if a little in awe of being the centre of so much attention. He did all that was asked of him and attracted many admiring comments from other dog owners and organisers alike.
“Unfortunately Buster didn’t quite win the competition, but he has won something far more important – he has just been found a loving new home. I hope that by helping to raise the profile of the excellent work done by the RSPCA even more animals will soon be as fortunate as Buster.”
Overall winner of the competition was ‘Star’, a four year old Norfolk Terrier owned by Charlie Elphicke MP, whose interests include ‘chasing seagulls, stealing ice creams and barking at the French doggies across the Channel’ from her home in Dover.
Anyone thinking of adopting a rescue dog, can visit the RSPCA animal re-homing centre at Bohemia Corner, Godshill. They can be contacted on 01983 840287 or email animalcentre@btinternet.com.
ENDS:
