8-Year-Old Pekingese Wins 'Ugly Dog Contest' in the US
Developed Disability After Canine Distemper at 10 Weeks Old
At this year's 'World's Ugliest Dog' contest held in the United States, an 8-year-old Pekingese named 'Wild Thang' won the championship.
According to the British daily newspaper The Guardian on the 22nd (local time), eight dogs competed for the top prize at the event held the previous day in Petaluma, California. Most of the participating dogs were adopted from shelters. The Pekingese 'Wild Thang,' who took first place in this contest, suffered from canine distemper when he was 10 weeks old.
Because of this, his teeth did not grow properly, and he developed a muscular disorder in one leg. He also has a unique appearance with his tongue always sticking out of his mouth. Wild Thang, who had attempted to win five times before this contest, finally earned the honor of victory after multiple tries.
On the 21st (local time), Pekingese "Wild Tang" won the "World's Ugliest Dog" contest held in Petaluma, California, USA. Photo by AFP Yonhap News
This contest has been held annually for nearly 50 years to emphasize animal love and encourage the adoption of abandoned dogs, especially elderly dogs. The event also aims to show that all dogs in the world, regardless of appearance or breed, can become someone's special companion.
Wild Thang's owner, Ann Lewis, who won this year's contest, received a prize of $5,000 (approximately 6.96 million KRW) and earned the opportunity to appear on the American TV show NBC's 'Today Show.' In the contest, second place went to 'Rom,' a 14-year-old pug using a mobility aid, and third place was awarded to 'Daisy Mae,' a 14-year-old mixed-breed dog rescued from the streets at age two after losing her teeth, fur, and eyesight.
14-year-old pug 'Rom', who won 2nd place in the 'World's Ugliest Dog' contest. [Photo by AFP Yonhap News]
Every year, this contest shares sad yet touching stories. Last year's winner, a Chinese Crested dog named 'Scooter,' was born with deformities and was once at risk of euthanasia. Born with hind legs bent outward, Scooter could not walk and used only his two front legs for a while. Later, with the help of a dog cart equipped with wheels, Scooter was able to walk properly.
The judging panel consisted of a broadcaster from NBC, a human rights activist, and the California State Treasurer, among others. The judges voted based on the dogs' first impressions, personalities, unique charms, and audience reactions to determine the rankings.
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