Tiverton canine is Westminster Dog of the Year (From Mid Devon Star)

Tiverton canine is Westminster Dog of the Year

11:20am Sunday 23rd October 2011 in News By Jamie Brooks

THE canine friend of Tiverton MP Neil Parish won the Westminster Dog of the Year competition on Monday.

Wilberforce took the title, organised by the Dogs Trust charity and the Kennel Club at the House of Commons despite fierce competition across the political spectrum.

Mr Parish raised a paw in support of a scheme the two organisations are backing which urge responsible dog ownership.

He said: “As a dog owner I’m aware of the great mental and physical health benefits dog ownership can bring.

“In promoting responsible dog ownership to old and young we can ensure that our communities are better places to live.

“One of the biggest dog-related complaints I hear is about dog fouling, and though it’s a small minority of irresponsible owners who don’t pick up it can tar the responsible majority.”

Mr Parish met both organisations to discuss the importance of microchipping, training and picking up after your dog.

Mr Parish said: “Microchipping helps ensure that many more stray dogs are reunited with their owners each year, thereby reducing the number of dogs destroyed and the costs for Local Authorities.

“The Dogs Trust and Kennel Club are calling on the Government to introduce compulsory microchipping, and I fully support them.”