DogsTrust link for Holyrood competition

Motherwell and Wishaw’s MSP will pair with a rescue dog to compete for this year’s Holyrood Dog of the Year.

Clare Adamson MSP, a dog-owner herself, will team up with a canine friend from the Dogs Trust when she competes with other politicians and their pooches for this year’s coveted title, which follows a three-year hiatus. Organised jointly by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, this year’s event will take place on May 9 with a focus on promoting responsible dog ownership.

Dogs of all shapes and sizes will head to the Scottish Parliament gardens with their two-legged MSPs to see who will be crowned Holyrood’s top dog.

Clare believes her own dogs are still a bit young to enter the competition but she decided that she would take the opportunity to highlight the fantastic work of the Dogs Trust and hopes to help find a new home for her four-legged friend.

The SNP politician said: “I am delighted that the Dog of the Year competition is back.

“My own puppies, Frodo and Sam, are a little young yet, but I will be entering with a Dogs Trust rescue dog on behalf of Motherwell and Wishaw.

“The pandemic has seen a surge in dog ownership with more people being at home but this, of course, brings concerns over welfare with our routines steadily returning to pre-pandemic patterns.

“I am hopeful that by taking part, my competition partner will find a loving home in the process.

“Dog of the Year is great fun and a wonderful celebration of the bond between humans and animals. And it is a chance to emphasise the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.”

Motherwell and Wishaw residents can take part in the competition online through the ‘pawblic’ vote.

To vote for Clare and her Dogs Trust dog visit https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/ hdoty