Scooter, a 7-year-old dog from Tucson, won a rather peculiar prize on Friday.
He was honored with the World’s Ugliest Dog Award, which is bestowed upon the most unique and charming dog that defies both adversity and expectations at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California.
Scooter is a 7-year-old Chinese crested dog with reversed hind legs and scattered and thin white hairs. One judge, Catherine Lang, told The New York Times, “In the cutest way possible, he kind of reminds me of a hairy hippopotamus.”
But the dog is more than what meets the eye. According to event organizers, his story is one of perseverance and survival, as he was originally rescued by the organization Saving Animals from Euthanasia.
“Scooter’s journey began with a heart-wrenching start when a breeder of Chinese Cresteds brought a brand-new pup with two deformed hind legs to an animal control facility in Tucson, with the intention to euthanize the pup,” according to a news release.
Organizers describe Scooter as a fearless navigator, one that can conquer stones, curbs, and steps. Scooter uses a cart to be able to do all this and more, allowing his front legs to move him around.
Moreover, he has a peculiar way of resting his front legs, “He takes frequent rest stops, propping himself up on his butt, which he uses as a tripod,” according to the release.
Years of mostly using his two front legs have given Scooter a skill that most dogs can’t replicate: walking and balancing on his front legs.
In the news release, his owner, Linda Elmquist, was elated about Scooter’s success in the show, feeling proud of the resilience Scooter has shown.
“Despite the challenges he has faced with his deformed hind legs, Scooter has defied all odds and shown us the true meaning of resilience and determination. He has become an inspiration to countless people around the world,” Elmquist said.
The organizers of the fair also emphasized the importance of having an event like the World Ugliest Dog Award.
“This unique event allows us to celebrate the extraordinary resilience and beauty found within these special dogs. Each contestant has a remarkable story to tell, and they serve as a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the indomitable spirit of these incredible animals,” said Tawny Tesconi, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair.
