OPEN POST: Post a Pup Sundays on Mondays - A Celebration of Canine Quirkiness: The World's "Ugliest" Dog Contest

Imagine a parade of dogs with faces that some might consider unattractive confidently walking down a runway. This isn't a fashion mistake; it's the World's "Ugliest" Dog Contest, a truly heartwarming event that has delighted audiences for almost fifty years! The Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, each year, showcases the most delightfully unconventional dogs you can imagine. It's akin to a beauty pageant with more slobber and fewer bolt-on boobs. These dogs flaunt their unique looks, which some may find so "ugly" that they become endearing. They might not be beautiful, but their hearts and will are something that transcends their shortcomings.

In 2024, the coveted title went to Wild Thang, an 8-year-old Pekingese with a remarkable spirit and a tongue that never seems to stay inside his mouth. This resilient pup overcame canine distemper as a young dog, resulting in distinctive features that would give even Pablo Picasso artist's block. After five years of competing, Wild Thang won the judges' hearts and was the victor. Wild Thang's owner, Ann Lewis, couldn't have been prouder if she had won a prize for cuteness. Their triumph includes a $5,000 cash prize (a substantial amount of premium dog food!) and a trip to appear on NBC's Today Show in New York City. 

The competition was as fierce as a Chihuahua protecting its favorite toy or spying on an ankle that needs a beat down. Runner-up Rome, a 14-year-old pug, secured second place in his wheelchair, proving it's never too late to shine. Let's also acknowledge Daisy May, the third-place winner whose resilience demonstrates that true beauty lies within - even when you've lost your hair, teeth, and sight, but continue to wag your tail with gusto. Some might question calling these lovable dogs "ugly." However, this contest celebrates the uniqueness of each dog, treasuring their extraordinary qualities. As Judge Fiona Ma stated, it's about embracing the exceptional characteristics that make each dog one-of-a-kind. Essentially, it's not about being ugly - it's about wholeheartedly being yourself, fleas and all!

Reflecting on past winners resembles flipping through an endearingly odd family photo album. There's Scamp the Tramp, with a wild mane that would make any 80s rock star envious. Zsa Zsa is an English bulldog with an underbite that could open bottles and a tongue so long it could practically have its own postal code. Who could forget Martha, the gentle giant Neapolitan Mastiff whose relaxed stage presence was reminiscent of a furry beanbag?

The World's "Ugliest" Dog Contest isn't just a competition; it's a wonderful celebration of diversity, a platform for animal advocacy, and a reminder that love truly is blind (and sometimes a little cross-eyed). It's about seeing beyond appearances and recognizing the beauty in every wagging tail, wrinkled snout, and lolling tongue.

Ultimately, the World's "Ugliest" Dog Contest imparts a valuable lesson: Embracing your quirks, confidently wagging your tail, and loving yourself - slobber, shoe chewing, and all. Now, that's something worth celebrating!"

I am a big believer in rescue, and these dogs have been through so much to make it; sometimes, they look the way they do because they were harmed, neglected, and abused but then find a forever home full of love. It reminds me of Nubby and Bacon; he's adorable with his little "imperfections" that made some people shy away, but not our Bacon, and now he's a manor superstar that we all love to see thriving and happy. In these trying times, let us look to these precious babies and find that there are actually some good people in the world. 

Photos: NBC News, Sky News