Dogs were the best of us in 2024. While the humans squabbled over prime ministers and presidents, good boys and girls across the world were out there being brilliant. Some not so brilliant, but they must have had good reason. Here’s a round-up of the ones who made headlines.
Ariel, born with six legs, had the sort of year she deserves, having been abandoned outside a B&M store in Pembrokeshire in September 2023 at merely 11 weeks old. But 2024 started with a bang as the cocker spaniel also born with two vulvas and only one kidney underwent successful surgery to have her additional limbs removed due to health problems. Now she can walk comfortably, spending her days paddle boarding along her local beach front. "She’s swimming in the sea, she’s been paddle boarding, surfing, and is just great with kids and families. She’s a very gentle soul who likes sitting and watching," said Mr Bird, Ariel’s adoptive owner.
Then there's Wild Thang, who finally won the World’s Ugliest Dog contest this year after four unsuccessful attempts. The eight-year-old Pekingese had contracted canine distemper as a puppy, causing his tongue to permanently stick out. His owner described him as "a healthy, happy Glugly (glamorous/ugly) guy" and shared the joy of winning the contest along with the $5,000 prize, hopefully spent on luxury treats.
Names don’t get much more heroic than Titan. This white labradoodle played a pivotal role by helping to catch his owner’s killer. The body of Mandy Rose Reynolds was found burning in Texas. Titan “barked frantically” at police, guiding them to the scene of the crime and leading investigators to arrest Derek Daigneault, who was sentenced to life for murder. "The keys to this case were a heroic and loyal dog named Titan and extraordinary cooperation between law enforcement agencies," stated assistant district attorneys Ryan Calvert and Alyssa Killin.
Daisy Cocker Spaniel waited eight years (roughly 56 dog years) to reunite with her owner after being stolen from her home in Mole Valley, Surrey, back in November 2016. Police alerted her original owners after discovering someone had tried to update her microchip. The reunion was heartwarming, with officers stating, "There was not a dry eye in the house" as Daisy instantly recognized her owners, sticking to them like glue.
Sadly, Beth, the Jack Russell terrier adopted by Queen Camilla, was put down due to an untreatable tumor last November. Adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Beth was noted for her companionship during many royal engagements and even featured on Camilla’s coronation gown.
On a brighter note, Kevin, the world’s tallest dog, was crowned by Guinness World Records. Standing at 0.97 meters (3 feet 2 inches) at the withers, Kevin held the record until his untimely death shortly after when undergoing surgery. His owner, Tracy Wolfe, expressed how devastated their family was, remarking, "He was just the best giant boy!"
Jennie, the guide dog making waves at Westminster, has accompanied Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling since July and garnered attention lying calmly during parliamentary sessions. "Stay there, good girl," could be heard as Darling was sworn in, showcasing Jennie’s calm demeanor amid political affairs.
Five-year-old Roxy, dubbed "Scotland’s loneliest dog," spent 767 days living at the Scottish SPCA’s Lanarkshire centre. Finally, she found her forever home after many had overlooked her. "We instantly fell in love with her face," said her new owner, Gerrard Brown.
Monty, the police dog, was commendably recognized for finding evidence linking to the conviction of five individuals involved in murder. Met Police heaped praise on Monty, "Who was able to find the evidence helping secure conviction."
Meanwhile, Commander, President Biden’s dog, has been involved in multiple biting incidents with Secret Service agents. Details emerged from internal documents detailing at least 24 biting incidents, raising concerns among agents tasked with ensuring their safety around the dog.
Lastly, there’s Bobi, the Rafeiro do Alentejo who once held the record as the world’s oldest dog at 30 years old but had his title stripped by Guinness World Records following investigations when he passed away at 31 years and 165 days. Despite the title’s removal, Bobi lived a rich, full life cherished by his family.
These incredible dogs of 2024 made headlines not just for their unique stories but also for their unwavering loyalty and the joy they bring to our lives. They remind us of the heroism and kindness manifested through our beloved pets, marking standout moments worth celebrating.
