Local MSP Craig Hoy and local black Labrador, Roma, have been crowned winners of the ‘Pawblic’ vote at this year’s Holyrood Dog of the Year competition.
Craig partnered with black labrador Roma, owned by Gifford resident Ian Gibson, to contest the competition after getting to know both the owner and his canine companion in the Goblin Ha and Tweeddale Arms pubs.
The annual event, held outside the Scottish Parliament, celebrates the special bond between MSPs and their canine friends while raising awareness of important dog welfare and ownership matters, including dog theft, companionship, microchipping and the use of electric shock collars.
Speaking after the event, Craig Hoy MSP said: “Dogs are loyal companions, and pubs are great places to meet new ones and to bring dog owners and the community together. That’s the message Roma and I brought to this year’s competition, and it clearly struck a chord with the public. We’re thrilled to have won the public vote!”
Roma is a much-loved regular at one of Craig’s local pubs, the Tweeddale Arms, and proved a hit on the day — meeting other dogs, charming judges, and helping to promote responsible dog ownership in Scotland.
Organised by Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club, the Holyrood Dog of the Year competition combines a public vote with judging from an expert panel. This year, Craig and Roma took home the top honour from the voting public.
Craig added: “It was a fantastic event with a very serious message behind it. Thanks to the Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club for organising it, and of course, a massive thank you to Ian and Roma for helping to make it such a success.”
Ian Gibson said: “Roma is a fantastic companion and enjoys meeting locals and visitors when we visit the pub. Dogs play a vital role in combatting social isolation and it was an honour to see her recognised at the Holyrood Dog of the Year competition.”
