Hero Hank is top dog!

An adorable rescue dog from Kilkenny has become a modelling sensation! Hank made it into the top 20 of the ‘Ireland’s Next Top Madra 2018’ competition. The adorable pet lives in Old Leighlin just outside Kilkenny with his owner Kerry Dermody. He was shortlisted in the canine competition for his “fierce beauty, fabulous coat, fresh look and a fantastic bark.”

The competition, run by RSVP magazine in association with Dacia, offered the lucky winning dog a two-night stay and evening meal in the stunning Harvey's Point hotel and an intimate photo shoot with Pawtrait pet photography, to be featured in RSVP magazine.

Sadly, Hank lost out in the final rounds to a poodle called Monte. However, his pet parent Kerry is far from disappointed, saying “It was a great experience. Hank made the top 20 from over 650 applicants.”

While he may not have won the crown, Hank still has plenty of reason to keep wagging his tail. His campaign for the canine competition included a slot as a guest star on the Ray Darcy TV show. The lovable pet has also done plenty of important work in highlighting the importance of the ‘adopt don’t shop’ ethos during the competition. Kerry hopes that Hank’s story will show people what a positive change they can make to a dog’s life if they adopt.

Little Hank is very much an underdog, as he is lucky to even be alive, never mind be a canine celebrity. Hank, along with his brother and sister, were dumped in a Paulstown pound as puppies because their breeder saw little financial value in them. Thankfully, all three siblings have since been lovingly rehomed, and Kerry credits this to the fantastic work of the Protecting Pound Dogs Rescue organisation.

“Hank came to our home as a foster dog who had so many health issues and was in bad physical and mental health. He has undergone several operations and has come out fighting, he has overcome all of the odds and has turned into an amazing dog who just wants to be loved.” Kerry explains

She lovingly describes Hank as  “a big cuddly, slobbery dog. He loves food and the fire. He’s happiest inside with our family. He is a dog that represents what rescue is all about and is flying the flag for pound dogs in Ireland.”

Kerry thanks all her friends and family in Kilkenny who put so much effort into voting for Hank to win on social media. “We had so much help from family and friends, as well as the Protecting Pound Dogs Rescue group. Everyone got behind the campaign. We’re very grateful.”