Michael wants UK’s fittest dog title

Eight-year-old Michael has already won the small dog category for the North West and is now in the national final of the competition run by Butcher’s Pet Care.

The four-legged pooch will go nose-to-nose with 10 other finalists and now needs people in the region to vote for him to be named the national category winner.

Dave O’Donnell (52), who owns Michael, said: “I’m really excited we have made it through to the finals of this competition. I think Michael deserves to win as he can run forever. I work as a window cleaner and he comes with me on the job daily, even though he just wants to play with my customers.”

He added: “He’s also a right little poser in front of the ladies! We would like people from the region to show their support and vote for Michael now!”

The Fittest Dog in the UK competition is a nationwide search to find and recognise the nation’s happy and healthy hounds which are full of life and have bags of personality. Judges include Mike Mullan, dog behaviourist and former Crufts judge, Ryan O’Meara, publisher of K9 Magazine and canine behaviour expert, and representatives from Butcher’s Pet Care.

Clare Scallon, from Butcher’s Pet Care comments: “We want to celebrate fit, healthy and active dogs across the nation no matter their breed or background. It’s the second year we have run this competition and this year, the number of entries is exceptionally high. I would like to congratulate all of our finalists for getting this far.”

Voting closes on May 16th, with the overall category winners announced the following week. Three national category winners will receive a year’s supply of Butcher’s dog food. A panel of dog experts will then select the national champion who will also be rewarded with a £500 holiday voucher. To vote for this year’s Fittest Dog in the UK, visit the Butcher’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/butcherspetcare and choose your favourite.