If all dogs were recognized for the love and loyalty they endow, each and every one of the 1,000-plus dogs entered in this year’s Golden Years Photo Contest deserves an award. Although we can’t publish them all, there’s no doubt that these faithful companions will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Thanks to all who entered. Join us in congratulating the winners and honorable mentions of this year's Golden Years Photo Contest.
1st place
Zoey, 11
Mixed breed
Jen Batchelor
Port Saint Lucie, Fla.
Zoey has been my best friend for 11 years. She wasn’t healthy the first few months after I rescued her, but once she got better, she excelled at obedience, and is such a joy. She is enjoying her golden years with her little “brother” who keeps her young at heart.
2nd place
Tibeaux, 14
Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog
John Taylor
Fairfax,Va.
Tibeaux is a former Grand Champion and now the protector of the couch. He is still very active and thrives on the attention of his family. We adore him, old dog quirks and all.
3rd place
Copper, 8
Golden Retriever
Tom and Shirl Martin
East Waterford, Pa.
Copper came to us as a rescue dog after wandering around on his own for about five months. We brought him home at a very difficult time in our lives. We needed him as much as he needed us.
Honorable mention
Mark, 12
German Shepherd Dog
Carol Sledge
Brentwood, Tenn.
Mark is very smart and willing to please. He has earned his AKC Companion Dog and Companion Dog Excellent titles, and still has the majestic look given to him by his good breeding. He’s been a joy to train and work with, and now spends his senior years enjoying a good romp with a tennis ball and receiving one-on-one attention.
Honorable mention
Wishes Come True, 10
Australian Shepherd
Lisa Skinner
Seagoville, Texas
With hopes of the perfect show dog, I named my dog Wishes Come True. Although she never became a show champion, she has succeeded as a soccer mascot, sheep herder, doting mother, comfort giver, sock thief, bed warmer, protector, and friend. She is the perfect dog — wishes do come true.