Adorable dogs, a cat and even an amphibian made the top picks in this year’s pet photo contest. We had so many wonderful entries, it was tough to narrow it down. Willow was chosen as the cover pet. She’s a rescue, as were many of the pets entered. Bailey received the most votes and definitely had star power. Meet the featured pets below and be sure to check out all of the adorable entries in our 2017 Pet Photo Contest gallery. Thanks to this year’s pet photo contest sponsor, Crunchies Natural Pet Foods.
Cover Pet
Willow loves to meet new people and is constantly wagging her tail, according to her owner, Megan Smith of Glen Burnie. She’s a lap dog and will be your very best friend if you give her belly rubs. Originally dropped at Baltimore Area Rescue and Care Shelter, she was then taken in by Mid-Atlantic Bully Buddies where Smith adopted her. “We were extremely lucky to meet her and have her as a part of our family,” Smith says. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen her tail stop wagging. She loves to meet new people and will immediately fall in love if you agree to pet her.”
Most Votes
Sporting her sunglasses, Bailey was able to rack in the votes. “This Golden is worth her weight in gold to us,” says owner Jodie Gray of Stevensville.
Runner Up
Winchester was not only a cover contender, he also came in second place for most votes. Owner Elizabeth Windsor, of Linthicum Heights, caught this shot of her Chesapeake Bay Retriever while he was swimming in the Patapsco River.
Perfectly posed
Dharms and Dylan dare you to pass without petting them. “These two are a great example of amazing family pets,” says owner Amber Krause of Davidsonville.
Saddest story
Bear was a rescue over 10 years ago but sadly had to be euthanized recently due to cancer at age 12. “There was only one ‘care bear’ and no sweeter more gentle soul,” says owner Heather Garland of Middle River. “He loved all — humans, dogs, cats and all other creatures big and small.”
Most unusual entry
Segar and Bubbles are caught here taking their first selfie, explains owner Cher Lamb of Stevensville.
Best Underdog
Nathan Arizona Jr. has a miraculous story, according to owner Rachel Reed of Severna Park. Despite his tiny size, he was as strong as an ox. He was originally dumped at a shelter in West Virginia and weighed less than 2 pounds at 2 months old. He was diagnosed with Parvovirus, a deadly disease, but refused to give up the fight. No one could believe he survived, Reed says. Once he was well enough to travel, he was transported to Maryland Animal Sanctuary & Rescue and into a foster family home, but his ordeal was not over. It was discovered that he was deaf, and then he contracted pneumonia. He was so teeny and weak, he could barely lift his head. After about a week, however, he started to turn the corner and eventually began running around his foster house. He was eventually adopted by Reed, became his full doggy self, and is living happily ever after.
Best Buddies
Ziggy and Toby are cousins and great buddies, says owner Alison Wilson of Annapolis. They love hanging out with each other, playing and having fun.
Best Friend
Milo brightens the life and brings joy to his family, according to Shelly Simi of Tracys Landing. “Amongst the chaos and craziness, we’re blessed to have him in our lives,” she says.
Cutest Cat
Morrison, who goes by MoMo, is so special, says owner Tiffany Kirschner of Annapolis. He loves water, is a huge talker, and enjoys cuddling and chasing the laser light, she says.
Check out this video of some more of our entries!