More than 400 attendees, including 35 participating dog-human duos, gathered at Industry City in Brooklyn for a lookalike contest celebrating International Dog Day. The event was organized by craft beer company Dogfish Head.
Rosa McGee and her French bulldog Lisa were crowned the best in show. McGee adopted Lisa after the dog failed training as a show dog. "She’s going to get a whole T-bone when she gets home," McGee told the New York Post, referring to her prize-winning French bulldog. McGee noted that while they might not have an obvious physical resemblance, they share an introverted nature and a love for alone time. For the event, McGee styled her hair in pigtails to mirror Lisa's ears, and purchased a matching yellow dress with a denim vest for her dog.
The judging panel included rapper Big Boi, "pup-fluencer" Jackie Hornung with her Samoyed Lumi, and Dogfish Head founder Sam Calagione. Contestants were asked questions such as "What is your pup’s most human-like trait?" and "Who runs the household, you or your dog?"
Sean Bracy, a plumbing business owner, attended with his King Charles cavalier/poodle mix, Venti. Bracy stated that he and Venti share similar eye shapes, skin tones, and a playful attitude. Christine Perea, a semi-retired flute player and dog walker, entered her 12-year-old poodle, Bunny, whom she has groomed to match her own long hair. Perea mentioned that people often stop her on the street to take photos of them together.
Hanna Rohani Wilson, who rescued her Aussiedoodle Shazee in May, noted that their connection is based on empathy. Wilson said Shazee is a social dog who tries to reassure people when they are scared, a trait Wilson shares. Lorraine Gates, a dog nanny and Guns N' Roses fan, dressed herself and her Chinese crested powder-puff, Jo-Jo Bon Jovi, to resemble Axl Rose.
Alanna Duncan and her shepherd mix Willow took second place. Willow wore a costume with crutches to match Duncan's, who is recovering from a torn ACL. Suki Kwon and her Pomeranian mix Kumo came in third, with both runners-up receiving dog treats and merchandise.
The event also included a raffle to benefit Badass Animal Rescue. The first-place prize for McGee and Lisa included a hotel stay, a travel stipend, a gift card, and matching trophies.
