Political pooch Sadie is crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year

Sadie, an eight month-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel/Poodle cross has today (Monday 29 April) been crowned winner of the prestigious Holyrood Dog of the Year competition.

Sadie who entered the event with Jeremy Balfour, MSP for Lothian, impressed the judges with her loveable character and devotion to her owner and constituents.

The annual Holyrood Dog of the Year competition, organised by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, took place today in the Scottish Parliament gardens at Horse Wynd, Edinburgh. Sadie showed dogged determination as she battled it out to defeat nine ‘paw-litical’ opponents to win the coveted title of Holyrood Dog of the Year, arguably the most sought-after in Scottish politics.

The MSPs entering the competition campaigned hard, canvassing for votes from the public before meeting the expert judges to share their dog’s heroic deeds and acts of devotion. This year, the event focused on the negative impact that fireworks can have on dog welfare, and how both dog owners and non-dog owners can help.

Proud owner, Jeremy Balfour said of his beloved dog: “We’re delighted – it’s the third year I’ve taken part so it’s brilliant to win. It’s been a really fun day.”

The judging panel – Dogs Trust Veterinary Director, Paula Boyden and Parliamentary Liaison Officer for Scottish Kennel Club, Richard Morrison – spent the morning with dogs from different political persuasions and ambitions.

Paula Boyden, Dogs Trust Veterinary Director said: “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 added: “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.”

Second place was awarded to Dog’s Trust dog Georgie and partner for the day Alison Johnstone MSP, with Monica Lennon MSP and her dog Cuillin in third place.