Dog Days of Summer: And the Winners Are…

The Dog Days of Summer photo contest held in celebration of National Dog Day has come to a delightful conclusion, and the results are in! 

Hosted by Montecito Journal and Coast Village Association, sponsored by Rosewood Miramar Beach and Village Properties, this event transformed Coast Village Road into a dog lover’s paradise on Aug. 10. The atmosphere was filled with wagging tails, joyful barks, and smiles on all the humans and posh pups! Dogs of all shapes and sizes enjoyed treats, photo opportunities and the company of their fellow canine enthusiasts.

After much anticipation, the winners of the photo contest have been chosen. It was such a difficult decision with more than 100 entries. We applaud these paw-some pups who captured the hearts of both the judges and the crowd!

A big “thank you” to everyone who participated in the contest and to those who came out to celebrate National Dog Day with us. The Dog Days of Summer event was a “paws up” success, filled with laughter, joy and unforgettable memories with our furry friends. We look forward to seeing you and your pups at next year’s celebration!

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1. Top Dog’s Pick (Editor’s Choice): Sadie

Sadie stole the show with her charming photo, landing the coveted title of “Top Dog’s Pick.” Her playful spirit and undeniable cuteness won over the Montecito Journal team, securing her humans’ a luxurious dinner for two at Caruso’s, complete with wine pairings. Congratulations to this top dog for her fur-tastic win!

Breed: King Charles Cavalier Spaniel
Birthplace: Los Angeles 
Favorite place to walk and sniff: Butterfly Beach and Shoreline
Favorite treat/toy: Lambie, Squirrel, Poke Pony
Favorite activity: Following her mom around and sitting on top of pillows, going to the beach
What does the owner have to say about their dog?
“She is perfect, loyal – the sweetest that loves kids, treats, and road trips.”

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2. (Fan Favorite): Crowd’s Best in Show Tabitha Tigglesworth

With the popular vote, Tabitha Tigglesworth was named the “Crowd’s Best in Show.” Tabitha’s fans rallied to show their support, earning her human the $500 prize. Her photo clearly struck a chord with the crowd. Well done, Tabitha!

Breed: French Bulldog
Birthplace: Ventura
Favorite place to walk and sniff: Anywhere she can see and be seen; Tabitha is the quintessential social butterfly. 
Favorite treat/toy: Tabitha is an equal opportunity treat connoisseur and considers her “favorite” toy to be whichever one her brother, Barrett, is currently playing with – even if she hasn’t played with it in weeks.
Favorite activity: Tabitha’s favorite past-times include: selecting her own toys at Cashy’s Playpen; brunch at Jeannine’s; wine tasting at Margerum; and visiting her favorite clerk, Wesley, at Vons (she refuses to call it Pavilions)
What does the owner have to say about their dog?
“Generating smiles and a friendly hello wherever we go, Tabitha’s love of people and community mirrors one of my favorite things about our village!”

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3. Fetch-tastic Finalist (Runner Up): Poppy & Lemon

Rounding out the winners are Poppy and Lemon, who took home the title of “Fetch-tastic Finalist.” Their adorable charm and cuteness, earning them a custom portrait of his pup-tacular self. Congratulations Poppy and Lemon winning a beautiful portrait by Lisa Nelms!

Breed: Havapoo (Poppy) Maltipoo (Lemon)
Birthplace: Unknown, adopted (Poppy) Snohomish, Wash. (Lemon)
Favorite place to walk and sniff: Any beach or our local parks’ wooded trails 
Favorite treat/toy: Meat Jerky and soft, super-squeaky toys 
Favorite activity: Chasing Lemon around on the beach (Poppy); going on long walks (Lemon)
What does the owner have to say about their dog?
Poppy and Lemon are both incredible sources of joy and energy in our lives. Lemon’s boundless affection and zest for life, combined with Poppy’s sweet and spirited nature, fill our days with so much happiness and laughter. We feel truly fortunate to have them with us.

More Pup Pics Below!