Get the latest news updates from our team of reporters across the US every weekday with your daily briefing on what’s happening nationwide. In the recent news, a unique dog named Wild Thang was crowned the ‘world’s ugliest dog’ after several unsuccessful attempts. The loll-tongued Pekingese from Coos in Oregon won the title at this year’s contest held in California. Most of the competitors at the event were rescue dogs, including Wild Thang who was diagnosed with canine distemper as a puppy.
Wild Thang, who is eight years old, has a muscular disorder in his leg and does not have teeth, but his owner Ann Lewis is proud of him. As the winner of the contest, she will receive $5,000 and a spot on NBC’s The Today Show. The World’s Ugliest Dog contest has been running for 50 years and aims to advocate for the adoration of all animals and promote the benefits of adoption. Rome, a 14-year-old pug, came in second place, with Daisy Mae, a mixed-breed, landing in third.
Chinese crested mixes, pug mixed breeds and other unique dogs competed in the contest. Judges included NBC News correspondent Gadi Schwartz and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma. The public also got to vote for the people’s choice award which was won by Rome the pug. The event’s website emphasizes that the contest is about celebrating the beauty of all dogs regardless of their appearance and having fun with these wonderful characters.
