CHRISTINE Grahame, MSP for Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale, and a rescue dog will compete with other politicians and their pooches to win the coveted title of ‘Holyrood Dog of the Year’.

Organised jointly by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, the competition offers the unique chance for MSPs to showcase their four-legged friends.

Dogs of all shapes and sizes will be helping their MSP owners to strut their stuff as they head to the Scottish Parliament gardens at Horse Wynd, Edinburgh, to see who will be crowned top dog on April 29.

Much like its long-running English counterpart, Westminster Dog of the Year, Holyrood Dog of the Year aims to promote responsible dog ownership and encourage open dialogue on dog welfare issues in Scotland, as well as providing an opportunity for MSPs to meet with dog welfare experts to discuss all aspects of the canine world.

This year’s competition will raise awareness of the negative impact that fireworks can have on dog welfare, and how the public can help reduce this.

Ms Grahame, whose fellow entrant is still looking for a permanent home, said: “I am delighted to be entering a Dogs Trust rescue dog on behalf of my constituency as this is an excellent way of highlighting the work of Dogs Trust and some of the wonderful dogs that require a new home.

“I am hoping that we are not only victorious in the competition but that my rescue dog finds a loving home in the process.”

“This fun event will be a great chance to celebrate the essential work MSPs are doing to improve dog welfare and will be a fantastic opportunity to highlight the importance of responsible dog ownership.”

MSPs will be calling for their supporters to vote for them before additional judging on the day to determine which political pooch will take home the ultimate parliamentary privilege of the ‘Holyrood Dog of the Year’ title.

More information about this year’s event can be found at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/holyrooddogoftheyear.