Wild Thang Wins World’s Ugliest Dog Contest at Sonoma-Marin Fair

Wild Thang, an eight-year-old Pekingese, emerged victorious at this year’s World’s Ugliest Dog competition held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California. The unique event featured a lineup of eight dogs, most of whom were rescued from shelters before finding their forever homes.

Wild Thang, hailing from Coos Bay, Oregon, has been a regular contender in the competition, participating in five previous editions before clinching his first win. His distinctive appearance is a result of a history with canine distemper as a puppy, leading to the absence of teeth and a muscular disorder in one of his legs.

The World’s Ugliest Dog contest, a tradition spanning nearly 50 years, celebrates the individuality and charm found in all dogs, regardless of their unconventional looks. The competition aims to promote animal adoption and appreciation for the uniqueness of each pet.

The victorious duo of Wild Thang and his owner, Ann Lewis, are set to receive a cash prize of $5,000 along with an appearance on NBC‘s renowned show, The Today Show. The runner-up in this year’s competition was a 14-year-old pug named Rome, who secured the second spot and a $3,000 prize.

Another notable contestant, Daisy May, a 14-year-old white-coated rescue dog, claimed the third-place title, earning a $2,000 reward. Daisy May, who had a challenging past living on the streets, has overcome various obstacles including loss of hair, teeth, and vision.

The judging panel for the competition featured prominent personalities like NBC News correspondent Gadi Schwartz, human rights advocate Linda Witong Abrahm, and California’s Treasurer Fiona Ma. Also, participants like Freddie Mercury, a rescue dog doubling as a local ice cream truck mascot in Petaluma, added to the unique and heartwarming atmosphere of the event.

Originally conceived by Petaluma resident Ross Smith in 1971 to support the Old Adobe Association, the World’s Ugliest Dog contest remains a beloved tradition, fostering a sense of community and shining a spotlight on the beauty found in all animals, regardless of their appearances.