By Haley Mitchell Godwin

The Luverne Journal would like to thank the community for the overwhelming response to our “Pet of the Week” contest. Over the last year we have enjoyed getting to know your pets and are thankful for the opportunity to not only share your pet’s unique stories but to also help promote animal welfare. 

Our staff and readers look forward to continued submissions and the involvement of our community.

The “Pet of the Week” segment has showcased the beloved pets of Crenshaw County for an entire year. From cuddly kittens to loyal dogs and even some exotic animals and a pig, each of the 52 featured pets has a unique story and personality. Through Pet of the Season quarterly competitions, and thanks to our reader’s votes, four pets were selected to go head-to-head in the first ever Crenshaw County Animal Clinic Pet of the Year contest. 

There’s Tucker, the energetic Goldendoodle who loves to run up and down the fence line at his home while playing with cows and miniature horses on the other side. There’s also Bash, the 20-pound curious Maine Coon cat who always finds a way to get into trouble. 

Let’s not forget about Bailey, the faithful toy poodle that loves nothing more than spending time with her family.

But it’s not just about the pets themselves. It’s clear that these pets are more than just animals; they are all valued members of their families and this series is an opportunity to highlight the special bond between pets and their owners. Many of the entries feature heartwarming stories of how pets have changed their owners’ lives for the better.

For example, Copper, a hound mix that was adopted from the Montgomery Animal Shelter, is touted by his owner as being her best friend and the best dog to ever be part of her family.

Not only does this series showcase some of the most adorable pets in the local community, but it also promotes the importance of responsible pet ownership and proves that rescue animals can make great pets.

Voting for the competition is open and will run until Aug 18. Animal lovers from the local community and beyond are encouraged to visit the Luverne Journal website at https://www.luvernejournal.com/the-luverne-journal-2023-pet-of-the-year/#/gallery to cast their votes for their favorite pet. Supporters can show their love by submitting a free daily vote and for those who wish to go the extra mile in cheering on their favorite contestant, the opportunity is available to send well wishes along with 25 additional votes for $25. Each $25 purchase gives you an entry into a $100 gift certificate giveaway. Please contact Jammie at 334-343-2128 for more details.

The pet with the most votes will be crowned as the 2023 Crenshaw County Animal Clinic Pet of the Year and will receive a gift basket full of items and gift certificates from local businesses.

If you’re in need of veterinary care, be sure to check out Crenshaw Animal Clinic for all of your pet’s health care needs.

“Pet of the Week,” “Pet of the Season,” and “Pet of the Year” are sponsored by Crenshaw Animal Clinic and Dr. Alethea Gammage of Luverne – (334) 335-5309. Crenshaw Animal Clinic is a full-service small animal clinic that provides comprehensive health care for pets. They offer a full range of services to help keep pets happy and healthy- including vaccine administration, routine preventive care, wellness exams, dental care, allergy care, flea/tick/heartworm control, parasite control, routine surgical procedures, microchipping, early detection, and treatment of a wide range of conditions and diseases with in-clinic diagnostics, ophthalmology, spay and neuter, and more. 

The Pet of the Week will start back in September so go online now to submit your furry (or scaly, or slimy or feathery) friend to be considered as our next Pet of the Week! https://www.luvernejournal.com/pet-of-the-week.