Holyrood Dog of the Year

Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, explains: “Our thanks to all MSPs and parliamentary pooches taking part in Holyrood Dog of the Year, an event open to members and dogs of any pawlitical persuasion. It’s a chance for politicians to recognise the human-canine bond and how dogs make a huge impact on our lives during tough times. Sadly, these are tough times – enquiries to Dogs Trust to support pet owners faced with the rising cost of living continue to be at an all-time high – and we want to work with MSPs to support their constituents who may need extra help to make sure their pet remains part of their family.”

Mark Beazley, Chief Executive of The Kennel Club continued: “The competition is a fun event which celebrates the strong bond between MSPs and their dogs, but it also provides an opportunity to address the cost of living crisis, and ensure dog owners are well-equipped with support and resources so they can continue to provide for their much-loved dogs during these difficult times.”

The Holyrood Dog of the Year competition has enabled us and Dogs Trust to engage with Scottish parliamentarians who are passionate about dogs and to identify those who are willing to raise canine issues and policies in the Scottish Parliament.

The media are invited to watch the politicians ‘show’ their dogs and raise awareness of key issues which affect canine welfare. Past issues raised include the effects of fireworks on dogs and the importance of dogs training and socialisation.

In a bid to win the ‘pawblic’ vote, MSPs call for their supporters to vote for their four-legged friends. In conjunction with the public vote, judges also assess the pooches based on their heroic deeds and winning personalities to crown the overall winner.

MSP Name: Tess White MSP

Region/Constituency: North East Region

Dog’s Name: Kura San

Breed: Flat Coated Retriever

Sex: Female

Age: 8.5 yrs

Colour: Black

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

Kura’s smile when she sees you and her whole face lights up. All of her body then wags in greeting. She is a loving dog and likes nothing more than to climb up and sit on your lap even though she is 35kgs! She is also a mud wallower and loves swimming and dunking. She is an excellent retriever and brings the ball back every time.  

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

She brings peace and calm to me and my family and love in our hearts. As a key member of the family she helps maintain positive mental health and wellbeing. Walking her is also good for everyone’s physical and social activity.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

Many people had dogs for the first time during Covid lockdown so many are not properly socialised and they are not used to being left on their own whilst their owners go back to work. There are huge behavioural issues and so many dogs have been surrendered to shelters. This confirms – “a dog is for life not just for Christmas” or in this case, “Lockdown.”

Rising cost of food and vet bills is a huge issue. People are struggling to feed their own children let alone their pets. Some centres are also struggling to feed and home dogs especially during the cost of living crisis.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

On a macro level to maintain peace, security and stability. Support the conditions to grow the economy to reduce the cost of living crisis, bring down basic living costs and avoid job redundancies which can be devastating for families. Maintain the current tax rebate system for charitable giving to support organisations like the Dogs Trust.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Kura’s sister Pip sadly died last month and she has been very lonely and sad. She recently had back surgery and is just healing. She is older than her years with a beautiful grey beard and eyebrows. She is a lovely dog and this would make her very happy. Her tail will not stop wagging and hopefully you will experience her wonderful smile.

I think a responsible dog owners is someone who considers the holistic needs of their dog. 

MSP Name: Roz McCall MSP

Region/Constituency: Mid Scotland and Fife

Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust rescue dog?

Because I want to highlight dog adoption and my own dog passed away recently.

What are your favourite characteristics in a dog?

Everything. They show pure love. Their mannerisms are delightful. They are a personality in a condensed form. I adore dogs.

Why are dogs the best companion animals?

They accept unconditionally. They are loyal and loving when shown loyalty and love.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

I think they’re most concerned about being able to look after their dog when everything else is stretched so far. Dogs are members of the family. How do you choose what to prioritise?  It’s beyond upsetting.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

As an MSP I work with many 3^rd sector organisations who do excellent work to support in these cases.

Why should you and your Dogs Trust rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

As MSP’s we should be doing more to ensure positive adoption for animals and if my Dogs Trust dog and I can make a difference and really promote that safe home for sheltered dogs then it should be embraced.

MSP Name: Sue Webber MSP

Region/Constituency: Lothian Region

Dog’s Name: Alfie

Breed: Hungarian Vizsla

Sex: Male

Age: 15 months

Colour: Red

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

He has the kindest loveable nature & loves meeting new friends (both canine and human).

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

He gets me up bright and early and helps me start each day feeling positive and loved and invigorated. When I get home from a busy, often hectic day, he is so excited to see me it is an instant de-stressor. Taking him out around the Pentlands after work is a great way to decompress and look after my physical and mental health.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

With the rise in cost of living many people are struggling to afford to keep their pets. They might have issues affording food, toys, bedding, training treats, leads and all of the items that go hand in hand with responsible dog ownership. This will also include Pet Insurance.

In my local area, Thistle Vets is a donation point for the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home Pet Food bank that helps people to keep their pets when the cost of ownership is a challenge.

The very organisations that take care of pets have also been impacted by the cost of living challenges. These are key and need to be supported.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

We want to ensure that families do not have to give up their family pets if the cost of owning their dog becomes an issue. Pet food banks are a great idea, and these should be more widely available.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Alfie is part of my Holyrood life every single day not just Holyrood Dog of the Year Day.  He helps me campaign, he helps at my surgeries, he loves meeting my constituents, he appears on Zoom meetings and occasionally at committee events too.  He even made a star appearance on my MSP Christmas card.

MSP Name: Collette Stevenson MSP

Region/Constituency: East Kilbride

Dog’s Name: Sadie

Breed: Spanish Water Dog

Sex: Female

Age: 3

Colour: Black and white

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

She’s a water dog and has webbed feet so absolutely loves the water and mucky puddles. She absolutely loves playing with her ball but doesn’t like giving it back!!! She is very good natured and loves to play fight with other dogs particularly her BF Freddy the cockapoo.

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

I love going on big walks with her and she was a great companion during lockdown. She follows me about everywhere and is never far from my side.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

Having money to feed and look after their pets. Vet bills are another huge strain on personal finances too.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

Possibly reducing the cost of pet food which is so expensive now.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Sadie is the best dog in the world (well I think she is). She is so good natured and full of fun and she even talks and loves howling!

MSP Name: Ash Regan MSP

Region/Constituency: Edinburgh Eastern

Dog’s Name: Lexie

Breed: Rough Collie

Sex: Female

Age: 3

Colour: Tri

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

Loyal and good with people and other dogs.

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

Always very pleased to see me!

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

Vet bills and food.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

Keeping inflation and energy bills down.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

She is both clever and beautiful.

MSP Name: David Torrance MSP

Region/Constituency: Kirkcaldy

Dog’s Name: Buster

Breed: Golden Retriever

Sex: Male

Age: 6

Colour: Brown

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

His facial expressions and response whenever I walk in the room. His ‘bouncy’ walk is also a favourite.

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

By offering unconditional love and affection.

My physical and mental health has also improved dramatically since Buster came into my life.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

The rise in the price of dog food and an increased reliance on foodbanks to help.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

The UK government could help in the short term by removing VAT from dog food – helping to ease the financial pressure on owners.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Because he has brought so much happiness and enjoyment to so many people.

MSP Name: Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP

Region/Constituency: Dunfermline

Dog’s Name: Oscar

Breed: Cockapoo

Sex: Male

Age: 2

Colour: Blonde

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

His never failing love of life and absolute ambition to make friends with everyone (humans and dogs).

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

He brings joy to the family when we play together. He gives us all a reason to get out and about, exercise and spend time away from work. He is the best sofa snuggle buddy in the evenings once he settles for the day.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

Vet bills and even just the cost of feeding pets is a concern I know.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

Recognising the pet poverty is an important issue for families because pets are members of the family too.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

He’s adorable, he’s funny and he’s caring. He might never win the smartest dog in the show but he’ll always be first for cuddles and fun.

MSP Name: Gillian Mackay MSP

Region/Constituency: Central Scotland

Dog’s Name: Alfie

Breed: Cocker Spaniel

Sex: Male

Age: Unsure as he’s a rescue but he’s getting to be an old boy now

Colour: Golden

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

He has the most gorgeous face and those big eyes get him out of all sorts of trouble!

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

He looks happy at everything that is going on around him and lifts the mood of everyone around him. We are very grateful to the family members who let us borrow him when they go on holiday.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

Being able to feed and properly look after their dogs (and pets in general) is a real concern at the moment.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

I hope the Government can continue to support households and that as MSPs we can direct constituents towards services who can help.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Alfie is a former Dogs Trust dog, he didn’t have the best start in life, is a bit scared of certain people but loves those he trusts. He has a bit of separation anxiety which means he comes and wakes you up in the middle of the night to make sure you haven’t left him. He’s sweet and funny and the poster dog for why people should adopt a pet rather than shopping for one.

MSP Name: Mark Ruskell MSP

Region/Constituency: Mid-Scotland & Fife

Dog’s Name: Joy

Breed: Greyhound

Sex: Female

Age: 4.5 Years old

Colour: Black and white

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?
Joy is a much loved ex-racing three-legged greyhound rescue who survived a serious injury as a result of racing and belongs to an animal welfare campaigner and constituent within the Mid Scotland & Fife region. She is super friendly with people and fellow dogs with a tail that never stops wagging, and she does not let the fact that she is a three-legged dog come in the way of running, playing and socialising. 

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

Joy inspires her owners to be more playful and lifts their spirits when they are feeling blue, bringing them smiles and buckets of laughter. She never misses out on family and friend get-togethers and is always the life and soul of the party. She keeps everyone active and socialised by encouraging them to attend several sniffaries a day, using every opportunity possible in those times to meet and play with other dogs.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

The sky-high costs of everyday living have left dog owners experiencing pet poverty and unable to provide for their dogs, with rescue and rehoming centres across Scotland having seen a dramatic increase in the surrender of pets. The cost of living crisis has also prevented non-dog owners previously interested in adopting dogs from doing so due to concerns over costs for fulfilling basic needs for pets (incl. housing, food, insurance and vet bills). 

But organisations like the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home and Scottish SPCA have brilliant ideas about eliminating barriers to dog ownership, with an expansive Pet Food Bank project which runs across Central Scotland providing pet food and other essential items and a support initiative to provide advice and support for people and pets who are struggling during this time.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

The Scottish Government to continue to offer financial support to alleviate the impact of the cost of living crisis (incl. energy and food bills) for tenants, including pet owners, support the campaign aims and initiatives of animal welfare organisations and rescue and rehoming centres actively working toward supporting pets and people who are struggling during this time, and break down barriers for tenants on accessing suitable pet-friendly rented accommodation.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Joy would love to use the Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023 event as an opportunity to raise awareness of key animal welfare challenges linked to greyhound racing in Scotland and advocate for the rights of fellow racing greyhounds.

MSP Name: Emma Harper MSP

Region/Constituency: South Scotland

Dog’s Name: Maya

Breed: Border Collie

Sex: Female

Age: 11 years

Colour: Black and white

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

Maya has a great personality and loves people. She often will seek cuddles from strangers and eagerly goes to speak to folk while wagging her tail. She is intelligent and good at problem solving.

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

Maya enhances my day to day life because she is always positive, happy and friendly. She loves being outside for walks, runs and fetching the ball.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

There have been many concerns raised about the cost of living crisis affecting the cost of purchasing pet food. I know my local food banks are already supplying pet food – even ahead of the cost of living crisis. We are now hearing more and more about people who have given up their family pets due to an inability to cover the costs of food for their pet.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

The UK government could apply a VAT reduction on pet food – including dog food.

People can claim VAT reduction currently for working dogs (gun dogs, sheep dogs and greyhound race dogs). This VAT relief could be extended.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

Maya had a very difficult start in her first year – lack of exercise and housebound. We adopted Maya after the first year and had a lot of behaviour and food issues to address. With lots of exercise, time and attention with human interaction she learned very quickly and shows us all how all dogs can be great dogs enhancing and enriching our lives.

MSP Name: Evelyn Tweed MSP

Region/Constituency: Stirling

Dog’s Name: Marley

Breed: Labrador

Sex: Male

Age: 9 - 10 years old

Colour: Blonde

What are your favourite characteristics of your dog?

Happy and content and very loveable. Loves humans particularly children! He’s been a fantastic dog for our family since we rescued him from the rescue centre in Dumfries and Galloway in 2014.

How does your dog enhance your day to day life?

No matter what kind of day anyone has had at home, he is always there to make things better. Always wagging his tail so it’s difficult to feel bad or stressed for too long. He just wants to be loved and give love.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

Vet bills and general care of pets during the cost of living crisis is a concern for my constituents.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

Raise awareness of services available for people if they do get into difficulties looking after their pets and where they can go to get help.

Why should your dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

1. Mar was quite a stressed dog when we picked him up from the rescue centre in Dumfries & Galloway. He would chew things (including my husband’s favourite armchair!) and eat basically anything. The first day home with us, he managed to get into the bag of food the rescue centre had given us for 3 days and he eat the whole lot in one go! We had to clear the kitchen of food as he would eat everything (one example is a whole load my husband had just baked!).
2. He has been a brilliant addition to our family and has settled into being an amazingly happy, content dog who has provided us with lots of love and happiness.

MSP Name: Alison Johnstone MSP

Region/Constituency: Lothian

Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust rescue dog?

I have sponsored Dogs Trust dogs for over a decade and while my lifestyle means that I cannot offer a home to a dog at present, I believe that it’s very important to make sure others are aware of the Dogs Trust and all that it does.

What are your favourite characteristics in a dog?

Loyalty, intelligence and the reminder to live in the moment!

Why are dogs the best companion animals?

They are loyal and smart. They encourage their owners to take exercise and to get outdoors.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

My constituents have written to raise issue regarding the costs of pet ownership, from food to veterinary care.

Why should you and your Dogs Trust rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

We are a great team and we will make sure that Dogs Trust dogs have every opportunity to help raise awareness, increase support and find a new and suitable home. When spectators see us together, they will explore adopting a Dogs Trust dog!

MSP Name: Meghan Gallacher MSP

Region/Constituency: Central Scotland

Why have you chosen to enter with a Dogs Trust rescue dog?

I have chosen to enter with a dogs trust dog this year to help highlight the important work they do in helping every dog find its forever home.

What are your favourite characteristics in a dog?

I love how playful they can be and the way they can be great with children, and their protective nature of the family they become part of.

Why are dogs the best companion animals?

I love how they become a part of the family, each dog has its own characteristics and personality – just like a human – and they build relationships with their human over time.

What issues around dog ownership and the cost of living crisis do you think your constituents are most concerned about?

The impact of Russia’s illegal war and the pandemic have been huge concerns for dog owners, with the cost of pet food rising and vet bills going up, combined with a decrease in the free time people have to spend with their pets if they are needing to pick up more hours at work to keep food on the table.

What steps do you think the government can take to help relieve pressure on pet owners regarding cost of living?

The government could give a subsidy to all households to enable them to better care for a pet, given the benefit this would have for our mental and physical health.

Why should you and your Dogs Trust rescue dog be crowned Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023?

I think we should be crowned Dog of the Year 2023 to give a platform to the amazing work of Dogs Trust and help all dogs in their care find their forever home this summer.