Nadia Whittome, Labour MP for Nottingham East and her four year old Labrador, Hattie are taking part in the ‘paw-litical’ contest to be named top dog in Westminster Dog of the Year 2022, an annual event run by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, taking place on Thursday 15 September.
The coveted event returns for its 29th year and is open to all dog loving MPs and their four-legged friends of all ages, breeds, shapes and sizes – pedigree and crossbreed alike, to compete for Parliament’s pooch of the year, held at Victoria Tower Gardens in London.
In 2021 the title and public vote was awarded to French Bulldog Vivienne and the late Sir David Amess. In memory of the MP who tragically died last year, the public vote prize has been renamed the Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote Award to commemorate Sir David, who was a dedicated dog lover and carried out extensive work to improve and protect dog welfare throughout his life.
Organised jointly by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, Nadia Whittome MP has the unique opportunity to celebrate her canine companion Hattie, as well as raise awareness of an important issue and concern many dog owners face.
This year the event focuses on fireworks, which can sadly cause great distress to dogs throughout the year. The competition will provide a platform for guidance on how dog owners can minimise the stress experienced by their pets, as well as encourage the government to explore what can be done to better regulate the use of fireworks across the UK.
Proud owner, Nadia Whittome MP explains:
“Hattie is my biggest supporter – every time I see Hattie she jumps up and greets me with excitement! She has such a friendly and playful nature and is always getting into mischief. Not only that, but she can also sense when I’ve had a difficult day and is always there for a cuddle.
“There are many reasons why she is deserving of the Westminster Dog of the Year title, but let’s be honest, she would look great in a crown!”
The contest also includes a ‘paw-blic’ vote, the newly named Sir David Amess Award, in which MPs are seeking votes from their supporters for their dogs. Additional judging will be carried out on the day by representatives from Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, who will consider the contestants on their dog-related deeds.
For more details of all the MPs and dogs entered for Westminster Dog of the Year and to vote for Nadia Whittome MP and Hattie visit thekennelclub.org.uk/wdoty
