2023 'Top Dogs' Get Their Day In Southington

SOUTHINGTON, CT — With the dog days of summer officially upon us, the Town of Southington recently celebrated its "Top Dogs" of 2023 following a June dog license campaign.

The random drawings not only allowed the dogs to have Nos. "1," "2" or "3" on their license, their owners also received special gift buckets full of things dog lovers (and dogs) enjoy.

According to Southington Town Clerk Kathy Larkin, the "top dogs" of 2023 are:

• Top Dog #1: Bandit Hausman a 1-year old golden goodle owned by Jen Hausman.

• Top Dog #2: Joshua Hall a 14-year-old bichon frise owned by Ruth Hall.

• Top Dog #3: Charlie Lebrocquy a 9-year-old miniature schnauzer owned by Keith Lebrocquy.

Larkin said the town clerk’s office held a random drawing July 7 of those dogs that had been licensed the month of June.

In total, she said, there were 2,057 dogs licensed that were in the drawing.

And for the winners, it paid off nicely.

Larkin said they received tag numbers 1, 2 or 3 and a bucket of goodies; dog treats and biscuits, toys, other dog-related items along with a gift card to a local pet shop and a "Top Dog" certificate.

The town cleark said the annual contest is a pleasant pastime amid the dog days doldrums of summer.

‘It’s fun to make a phone call to the owners of the Top Dog winners. They are surprised and
happy for their dog," Larkin said. "Their dog is always Top Dog to them but now they have town recognition for the license year."