A remarkable story has emerged from Cohoes, New York, where a ten-year-old Yorkie mix named Champ has been crowned the champion of the 2026 edition of PEOPLE’s World’s Cutest Rescue Dog Contest, sponsored by the PEDIGREE® brand. His triumph not only highlights his endearing qualities but also underscores the resilience and potential of rescue animals.
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Champ, originally named Chunk, was discovered abandoned on the streets of Texas with a serious leg injury that ultimately required amputation. My Chi & Me Rescue of The Woodlands, Texas, was instrumental in his rescue, facilitating the necessary medical care. Despite his injuries and the unfortunate circumstances that led to his being a stray, Champ was known to have a few extra pounds, a situation that led to his playful, affectionate personality. Susan Carmody, a special education teacher from Cohoes, came across Champ’s picture and was instantly drawn to him, particularly by his expressive ears and his need for a loving home.
“I saw his ears. I saw he was missing a leg and I thought, ‘I could help him,’” said Carmody. With compassion steering her decision, she reached out to Wagging Tails Rescue NY to adopt him, determined to provide a home for this “imperfectly perfect” dog.
In November 2023, Carmody drove to officially adopt Champ, now nearly one month post-amputation. She was pleasantly surprised at his agility and spirit, describing him as “invincible.” After his adoption, Carmody renamed him Champ, a nod to his resilient spirit. Since then, Champ has thrived, not only adjusting to his new life but also becoming a certified therapy dog under the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, where he brings joy to schools, airports, and assisted living facilities.
Champ’s journey has touched the hearts of many, including the judges of PEOPLE’s contest. Not only did he win the title of the World’s Cutest Rescue Dog, but he also gained a year’s supply of PEDIGREE® dog food and a $1,000 donation to a pet rescue of Carmody’s choice. Expressing her surprise at the win, Carmody recalled, “I was in total shock and disbelief. I started shaking,” an emotional moment made sweeter when she noticed Champ’s ears perk up with excitement.
In her view, Champ isn’t just a companion but a teacher. “He reminds me to focus not on what’s missing, but what’s possible,” she stated, reflecting on how he approaches each day with joy and enthusiasm despite his past challenges. Their bond has not only enriched her life but also the lives of those they visit together.
Champ’s win is not an isolated case in the contest, which also acknowledged two other inspiring rescue dogs, Tiberius and Bean. Tiberius, an eight-year-old blind dog from Philadelphia, overcame a series of severe medical issues after being rescued from the streets in poor condition. His new owners, Amy Ernst and Pamela Tremarki, have embraced the challenge of caring for him, adapting their home life to ensure he receives the support he needs.
Also receiving recognition was Bean, a pug who once roamed the streets of Nogales, Mexico, before being rescued from neglect at just a year old. Bean’s new family, Emma and Nick Flannery, were drawn to his charm after the loss of their previous pet. They describe him as a loving companion who has become an essential part of their family, demonstrating the transformative power a rescue pet can have.
Each of these stories serves as a reminder that behind the struggles of rescue dogs lie endless possibilities for love and companionship. Beyond their scars and past hardships, they have the capacity to bring joy and warmth to families and communities alike. As more people hear these inspiring tales of resilience, the hope is that more shelter pets will find forever homes. The familial bonds formed through these adoptions showcase the profound impact that animals have on our lives.
As Champ continues to spread happiness in his new role as a therapy dog, his story encourages others to consider adopting rescue pets. With resilience etched into their stories, these dogs not only enrich the lives of their loving owners but also inspire a broader understanding of compassion and love.