Happy Staffie crowned nation's smiliest pet
Harvey will be awarded the prize of a pet photoshoot so that his winning smile can be captured forever
A Staffordshire bull terrier from Horley in Surrey has been crowned the country's smiliest pet. The Staffie, named Harley, beat off competition from over 200 other pets including dogs, cats, parrots and even a sheep, following a nationwide search to find the pet with the winning smile.
Run by the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH), the competition forms part of the I heart my pet campaign, which has been designed to celebrate the love that UK pet owners feel for their animals, to encourage them to think about the health of their pets and to seek independent, expert animal healthcare advice.
The winner was voted by a judging panel, which included celebrity vet Marc Abraham, and will be awarded the prize of a pet photoshoot - so that his winning smile can be captured forever.
April Gargiulo, Harvey's owner, said: “We’re so excited that Harvey has won this prize and is getting some recognition for how amazing and happy he is – he really deserves it. Even though he’s getting on a bit at the grand old age of 10, Harvey still runs around like a puppy and is in amazing shape for his age.
“He enjoys long walks and is also a fantastic swimmer, regularly fetching sticks from our local doggie-dip pond. We feed him a varied diet of quality dog food and fruit and veg to keep him happy and healthy.”
NOAH urge pet owners to ensure their pet's healthcare needs are taken care of throughout the year. A range of advice from veterinary and pet care professionals for all species can be found at www.pethealthinfo.org.uk, alongside tips for keeping pets happy and healthy all year round.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
