The public can now cast their vote and pick a furry favourite among the photos submitted to the Canadian Animal Health Institute’s (CAHI) second Annual Cutest Pets on Parliament Hill contest. Ten finalists across three categories—dog, cat, and other pet—are currently vying for the title.

“This time around, we’ve expanded the number of finalists in each category from three to ten, adding an extra dose of excitement and opportunity for all participants,” CAHI president and CEO, Catherine Filejski explained. “This annual contest serves as a platform to celebrate the joy and companionship that pets bring to our lives, while also emphasizing the importance of access to essential veterinary medicines for pet owners and veterinarians across the country.”

Besieged by over one hundred entries from Parliamentarians, staffers, and members of the Press Gallery on Parliament Hill, competition judges have been working hard to narrow down the finalists. This year’s judges include:

• 2023 Cutest Pets on Parliament Hill Winners: Shohei Ohtani, Matteo and Petunia
• Rebecca Greenstein, DVM, chief veterinarian at Kleinberg Veterinary Hospital and veterinary expert on CTV’s Your Morning and The Social
• Enid Stiles, MSc, DVM, chief veterinarian at Sherwood Park Animal Hospital and founding member of Veterinarians without Borders
• Michel Picard, radio host of UniqueFM

“Judging these incredible pets was no easy task. Each entry reflected a tremendous amount of time, effort, and creativity, showcasing the deep love and bond shared between these pets and their families,” Greenstein says.

Voting for each category is open on the CAHI website. The winners will be unveiled at CAHI’s Pet Gala on June 11 in downtown Ottawa.