Tuesday April 29th 2025
Christine Grahame (left), Summer and Kim McNeil. Credit to photographer, Sandy Young/PA Media Assignments.
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Luke Jackson
Local MSP, Christine Grahame, took part in Holyrood Dog of the Year again this week to highlight the good work of local pet rescue centres.
The annual event, ran by Dog’s Trust and the Kennel Club, occurs every Spring at the Scottish Parliament with MSPs able to either enter their own dogs or a “borrowed” dog from a rescue centre to be crowned “Holyrood Dog of the Year”. The purpose is to raise the profile of dog welfare issues in Parliament and the wider public.
For the first time, at the invitation of Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale MSP Christine Grahame, a rescue dog from Borders Pet Rescue, Summer, took part in this annual fun celebration. Summer, a 9 year old King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, was used for intensive breeding for years until she no longer breed when she was cast aside and thankfully came into the care of the rescue centre. She is a grand and loving old lady and has now found a permanent home locally.
Christine Grahame said:
“Borders Pet Rescue does such a wonderful job and Summer was lucky indeed to find a home through them.
“She did not win a prize in this year’s contest but, better than that, she has won a loving home.”
Kim McNeil , Centre Manager said:
“Sadly, Summer’s story is not unique. We are seeing far too many dogs coming into our care after being used solely for breeding, only to be discarded when they can no longer produce puppies.
“For anyone thinking of welcoming a dog into their life, I would warmly encourage you to visit Borders Pet Rescue or your local rescue centre. There are so many wonderful dogs, like Summer, just waiting for a second chance at happiness.”
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