In The Know with Gino: Scooter IS the 2023 World’s Ugliest Dog!
Petaluma, California – The Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, played host to the highly anticipated 2023 World’s Ugliest Dog Contest on Friday, June 23rd. Spectators were treated to a display of extraordinary canines that have defied adversity and captured hearts with their unique charm. After a captivating competition, the prestigious first place was awarded to Scooter, a resilient 7-year-old Chinese Crested hairless, owned by Linda Elmquist from Tucson, Arizona.
Scooter’s journey began with a heart-wrenching start when a breeder of Chinese Crested dogs brought a brand-new pup with two deformed hind legs to an animal control facility in Tucson, Arizona, with the intention to euthanize the pup. Today, Scooter not only survives but thrives, blissfully unaware of any perceived differences from other dogs. His handicap hasn’t hindered his zest for life as he fearlessly navigates obstacles, swaying side to side on his two front legs, conquering stones, curbs, and steps with unwavering determination. With the help of his cart, Scooter zooms around with enthusiasm, exploring his surroundings.
“I am overjoyed and incredibly proud that Scooter has been crowned the winner of the World’s Ugliest Dog contest,” said Scooter’s owner, Linda Elmquist. “Despite the challenges he has faced with his deformed hind legs, Scooter has defied all odds and shown us the true meaning of resilience and determination. He has become an inspiration to countless people around the world.”
Securing the second place was Wild Thang, a resilient 7-year-old Pekingese owned by Ann Lewis. Wild Thang, a veteran of the World’s Ugliest Dog contest, participated for the fourth time, captivating attention with his glamorous yet “ugly” (glugly) charm. Despite a challenging start, contracting distemper as a puppy from a rescue foster, Wild Thang persevered while enduring permanent damage. His teeth failed to grow, causing his tongue to protrude, and his right front leg paddles incessantly. Nevertheless, he remains a healthy and happy canine, devoted to promoting the necessity of pet vaccinations.
Taking third place and the coveted Spirit award was Harold Bartholomew, a 16-year-old Chihuahua owned by Sabrina Impelido. Affectionately known as Harry, Harold brightens everyone’s day at VCA Windsor Animal Hospital in Lake County, California. Despite being blind and deaf, Harold showcases his unique charm with snot bubble-blowing prowess. His journey to happiness wasn’t always easy, as he was discovered by Underdog Rescue wandering in a park in Antioch, California, over a year ago. Embracing his curmudgeonly yet gentle nature, Harold has thrived, becoming an advocate for animal rescue and uplifting those around him.
In addition to the top three winners, the People’s Choice award, determined through online voting, was granted to Rascal Deux, owned by Dane Andrew. Weighing in at just 6.5 pounds, Rascal Deux is a captivating and quirky hairless mutant with Einstein-like hair, a crooked face, two different colored eyes, a loose tongue, and a lack of several teeth.
“We are thrilled to have hosted another successful World’s Ugliest Dog contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair. This unique event allows us to celebrate the extraordinary resilience and beauty found within these special dogs. Each contestant has a remarkable story to tell, and they serve as a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the indomitable spirit of these incredible animals,” said Tawny Tesconi, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair. “Congratulations to Scooter for winning first place, Wild Thang for securing second place, Harold Bartholomew for earning third place and the Spirit award, and Rascal Deux for capturing the People’s Choice award. Their remarkable journeys and undeniable charm have captivated the hearts of people around the world.”
SOURCE: Sonoma Marin Fair
