Self-confessed animal lover Chris Matheson is hoping he and a four-legged friend will win this year’s coveted Westminster Dog of the Year competition.
The MP for Chester has been paired with Casper the Yorkshire Terrier, a Dogs Trust rescue, to battle it out with other politicians and their canine comrades on Thursday.
Much more than a mere beauty pageant for pooches, the contest celebrates the unique bond between man and dog and aims to promote responsible animal ownership.
It’s open to all parliamentarians’ dogs, regardless of breed, creed or pawlitical persuasion.
Chris said: “During the election campaign, I met thousands of constituents and of course their dogs too.
“I’m a real animal lover and when I found out about this annual competition I just thought it sounded like fun.
“We have cats at home so it will be a nice change to take care of a rescue dog for the day.
“I have not met my new four-legged friend yet so I can’t comment on our likelihood of winning, but animal welfare is a serious subject and anything that promotes it is a worthy endeavour.”
Adrian Burner, chief executive of Dogs Trust, which is running the event with the Kennel Club, said judges will be on the lookout for dogs’ good deeds and devotion to their owner.
The public can also vote for their favourite politician and hound duo by clicking here.
