Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston earned a ‘pawdium’ position with Buster, a boxer/labrador cross rescue dog from Dogs Trust, at this year’s Holyrood Dog of the Year Awards.
The annual event, supported by Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club, saw a variety of pooches taking part to shine a spotlight on important animal welfare issues.
Buster, who is currently waiting for rehoming, got third place for his friendly nature which wooed judges and spectators alike.
Mr Halcro Johnston said:
“It was great to see so many of my MSP colleagues supporting this important event which highlights issues such as pet-friendly housing, responsible breeding, good training and responsible ownership.
“But, of course, the undoubted stars of the show were the dogs, and they really highlighted how dogs are such a positive for so many people, as well as the importance of every dog having the chance to live a happy, healthy life in a loving home.
“The Dogs Trust does incredible work to help rehabilitate and rehome dogs in need across Scotland and the UK, and I would encourage anyone who’s thinking about rehoming a rescue dog to get in touch with Dogs Trust or their local centre.
“I was absolutely delighted that Buster placed third in the competition. He’s an absolutely brilliant dog and, had circumstances allowed, I would have loved to have taken him home.
“He really is a great example of why folk should consider adopting a dog and I know that, when he gets his forever home - complete with a spot where he can proudly display his trophy – he will be a very loved member of that lucky family”.
