Overview

• The contest took place on August 8 at the Sonoma County Fair with judges evaluating finalists on appearance, stage presence and backstory
• Petunia was rescued in May from a Las Vegas backyard hoarder situation and later underwent surgery to correct breathing issues while receiving daily skin treatments
• Her win awarded a $5,000 cash prize and a merchandise partnership with Mug Root Beer that will showcase her likeness on limited-edition cans and related products
• Petunia and handler Shannon Nyman appeared on the TODAY show on August 11 before she returns to Eugene, Oregon, under the ongoing care of Luvable Dog Rescue
• Organizers emphasize the event’s mission of celebrating rescued dogs, spotlighting the health harms of irresponsible breeding and encouraging shelter adoptions