MSP hopes pooch will be top dog
Green MSP Mark Ruskell is aiming to win a top prize at the Scottish Parliament – with the help of his dog.
Four-year-old rescue greyhound Bert is in the running for the first ever Holyrood‘dog of the year’prize next month.
Mid Scotland and Fife representative Mr Ruskell will show off his four-legged friend at the Scottish Parliament gardens at Horse Wynd in a bid to win first place.
The event, which is organised by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, is geared towards promoting responsible dog ownership while encouraging open dialogue on dog welfare issues in Scotland.
It also provides an opportunity for MSPs to meet with dog welfare experts to discuss all aspects of the dog world.
The awards take place on Monday, May 8.
Mr Ruskell said: “Bert is my biggest supporter and a part of the family. He deserves to be centre stage after all of his loyalty and service on the political trail.
“He will always be a winner to me and proves very popular in Mid Scotland and Fife when out canvassing.”
Bert, whose claim to fame is appearing on Reporting Scotland during a protest to protect greenbelt for dog walking, is said to be passionate about making sure more is done to support fellow retired racing dogs.
Mr Ruskell will be among the 17 MSPs calling for support – with the winner being chosen by a combination of a public vote and an expert judging panel, featuring Scottish Conservatives leader Ruth Davidson and her pet dog Wilson along with representatives from Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club. For more information or to vote go to thekennelclub.org.uk/ holyrooddogoftheyear.