Everyone loves a cute dog, but what about the canines in the not-so-fortunate looks department?
Each year, the World's Ugliest Dog Contest seeks out a different kind of winner: the world's ugliest dog. The contest which takes place at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, Calif., looks to celebrate the "homely hounds and the humans who love them."
“We’re proud to celebrate all dogs and pets by showing that no matter their imperfections, they are adoptable, lovable and a great add to any family.” said Erin Post, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair, in a statement.
The 28th annual 2016 World's Ugliest Dog Contest will take place on June 24.
The winner of the "World's Ugliest Dog" title will receive $1,500 and a trophy. There will also be titles and cash awards for the runner-up and the third-place winner.
A special award called the "Spirit Award" will go to the dog and owner based on the obstacles they have overcome or what services they have provided for their community, according to the contest's application.
Last year's top winner was Quasi Modo, a friendly dog whose appearance fits her name. According to an article in The Guardian, Quasi Modo was born with a birth defect called short spine syndrome that left her with a hunched back and unable to move her head.
Quasi Modo and her family are returning for their third year in the show.
The event will include a "Fashion Faux Paws Fashion Show" and a "Beauty and the Beast Walk" which features Miss Sonoma County court walking adoptable rescue dogs down the catwalk. The homely contestants and their owners will be featured in exhibition booths at the fair's Dog Lover's Festival earlier that day.
Hosting the event is Bob Lacey and Sheri Lynch, better known as "Bob and Sheri," from the popular radio show on The Mix. Judges for the event include Indra Petersons, weather anchor and meteorologist for ABC News, and Neil Gottlieb, business owner and a contestant on the latest season of Survivor.
