World's Ugliest Dog 2017: Martha, 125-Pound Neapolitan Mastiff, Wins This Year's Contest [PHOTOS]
Martha, a 3-year-old, 125-pound Neapolitan Mastiff, won this year's World's Ugliest Dog title Friday. The 29th annual World's Ugliest Dog Contest was held in Petaluma, California.
The dog, who won all hearts with her droopy red eyes, uncontrollable drool and baggy skin, was rescued when she was nearly blind from neglect by the Dogwood Animal Rescue Project in Sonoma County. Several surgeries were conducted and Martha can now see again, her handler Shirley Zindler said. Post-surgery, Martha’s eyes however, remain red and droopy.
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Martha won a trophy, a $1,500 prize and a flight to New York City for "media appearances," according to contest organizers.
“We’re proud to celebrate all dogs and pets by showing that no matter their imperfections, they are adoptable, lovable and a great addition to any family,” Erin Post, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair, said in a statement on the website.
While talking about Martha's habits, her handler said she snores so loudly it is impossible to sleep with her in the same room. During the day, Martha enjoys bossing around other dogs fostered by Zindler, according to the New York Times.
"Do you know you just won the World's Ugliest Dog Contest?" asked Kerry Sanders of NBC News, one of three judges who gave Martha the crown. Her handler answered for her: "I'd gloat, but I need a nap."
Martha beat out 13 other dogs, most of them neglected dog breeds, to get the crown. Martha slowly climbed onto the stage, plopped down and napped as the crowd cheered for her.
"Does Martha know she’s that ugly?” an announcer asked, to which Zandler replied: "No. ... Martha thinks she’s beautiful. We tell her every day."
The contestants were judged on first impressions, unusual attributes, personality and audience reaction.
Moe, a 16-year-old Brussels Griffon-pug mix from Santa Rosa, California, who was the oldest in the competition, came in second. Moe lost his hearing and sight but has a strong sense of smell.
Chase, a 14-year-old Chinese Crested-Harke mix, from Neath, U.K., took the third place.
"The annual Contest celebrates those dogs that may not earn a Best of Show, but are lovable and adoptable anyway. Notable past winners include Walle, a basset/boxer mix that waddled as he walked; Peanut, a tiny dog with a history of abuse; and Quasi Modo a short-spined mutt that was an audience favorite," the contest's website reads.
Read: World’s Ugliest Dog 2015
Many of the contestants were adopted after the event. Monkey, a 6-year-old Brussels Griffon, and Icky, an 8-year-old unknown breed, were both rescued from the homes of hoarders.
Last year, Sweepee Rambo, a 17-year-old blind Chihuahua, won the 2016 World’s Ugliest Dog. His owner, Jason Wurtz, told reporters the 4-pound dog was a gift to his ex-wife.
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