A dog from Aberdeen has been shortlisted for the coveted title of Ambassadog, VisitScotland has revealed today.
Fox Terrier Bertie, age 6, divides his time between Aberdeen and a cottage on the shores of Loch Torridon. Officially named Granddach Beinn Allign (after the Torridon Munro), he has travelled extensively all over Scotland with his owner Gail, a geophysicist.
Bertie’s adventures have seen him visit dog-friendly cafés from Aberdeen to Glen Tanar and Morven on Deeside, quaint villages of East Neuk and even embark on an epic ascent of Maol Chean-dearg.
Following the launch of the search in March, VisitScotland, working in partnership with recruitment agency Denholm Associates, received applications from over 200 dogs from all corners of Scotland – from as far as Shetland.
Originally only six dogs were to be shortlisted, but the competition has so been so fierce that a total of nine dogs, who conveyed the spirit of Scotland, have made it to the final stages.
VisitScotland will now work alongside Denholm Associates, TV personality Kaye Adams and the charity Dogs’ Trust to pick the Ambassadog from the finalists.
The dog ultimately chosen to fulfil the role will have a ‘nose’ for the best food and drink and a ‘tail’ for adventure.
The four-legged friend will follow in his or her owner’s footsteps to take in everything Scotland has to offer – all to be documented on social media. It’s an unpaid role, but the dog will receive a special prize for its owner - an exclusive, inspirational and unique dog-friendly holiday in Scotland in 2016*.
Helen Campbell, head of global brand and marketing communications, VisitScotland said: “We have been astounded by the quantity of applications for the search for Ambassadog, as well as overwhelmed by the quality – it has been a very tough job to shortlist! It’s also been amazing to see the passion that owners and their dogs have for the spirit of Scotland. They are all ambassadors in my book, we just have to take the next step in finding our ultimate Ambassadog.”
Broadcaster Kaye Adams said: “I’m delighted to have been asked to be a judge for the search for Ambassadog; as a dog lover myself I know that dogs take you on an adventure around the country that you wouldn’t get to see usually – smells, sights and sounds that no human can fully appreciate!”
Sandy Callander, senior consultant at Denholm Associates, said: “Denholm Associates attracts top talent from CEOs to junior executives. Finding an Ambassadog has certainly been a unique brief, but one that we have relished: dogs can be loyal, steadfast and love a challenge, all great qualities for interviewees and I look forward to shaking a paw on interview day.”
Sandra Lawton, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Glasgow, said: “Dogs Trust’s rehoming centres in Glasgow and West Calder are home to all kinds of dogs - from Labradors and Lurchers to Westies and Whippets – all seeking someone special with whom to start a new life. Our country offers plenty of opportunity to explore fun outdoor experiences with your dog. We hope this competition inspires anyone looking for a dog to think of Dogs Trust as the start of a lifelong adventure.”
Interviews for the role of Ambassadog will take place later this month and an Ambassadog will be selected soon after.
For more information, please go to the VisitScotland website.