This past Friday, the Sonoma-Marin Fair hosted perhaps the globe’s most prestigious contest for less-than-attractive dogs… okay… it was the ‘World’s Ugliest Dog’ competition. But a champion is a champion – pedigree notwithstanding.
An 8-year-old Pekingese from North Bend, Oregon named Wild Thang was crowned the “World’s Ugliest Dog.” This was Wild Thang’s fifth attempt at the crown time and it turned out to be the charm as W.T. finally it broke through to the pinnacle of ugly dog stardom.
On Wild Thang’s Instagram @Wildthangofficial account it was posted, “Despite facing numerous challenges, including surviving distemper as a puppy, Wild Thang has emerged as a healthy and happy Glugly (glamorous/ugly) guy.”
The press release adds that Wild Thang’s mission is to raise awareness for the importance of pet vaccinations.
The contest, now entering it’s 20th year, isn’t actually about spotlighting “ugly” but instead is meant to inspire love for all creatures – especially rescue pets.
“The World’s Ugliest Dog contest continues to celebrate the beauty of individuality and the unbreakable spirit of these remarkable canines. These dogs remind us that true beauty is not defined by conventional standards but rather by the love, joy, and resilience they bring into our lives.”
And what is the grand prize for being crowned the “World’s Ugliest Dog”?
A $5,000 check. Not a bad day’s pay for doing what comes naturally.
[YouTube: KTVU FOX 2 San Francisco]