Westfield's Top Dog

*Coming soon* - A video of the 2026 submissions to the “Top Dog” contest.

Throughout the fall, residents of Westfield submitted information and pictures of their loyal companion(s) to the “Top Dog” contest. City Clerk Kaitlyn Bruce met with judges, Network Administrator Jackson Lambert, Westfield Feed owner Mike Sadowski and Animal Control Officer Terkelsen to narrow down the 144 submissions. Six finalists were selected based on their special stories, stand out photos and connection to the community. Over the month of December, 504 votes were cast for who would be the Top Dog of 2026 with Scooter winning first place by 13 votes. Second place went to Gertrude with 137 votes and third place to Summertime with 71 votes.

Stay tuned throughout the year to see photos of Scooter on Licensing advertisements and reminders!
Thanks to all who participated this year, we can't WAIT to see all the PAWS-ITIVELY amazing entries to come next year!

Meet Scooter - Westfield's Top Dog of 2026

Scooter, a 13 year old Mini Australian Shepard, "is special because of his loyalty and companionship. We have a special bond" according to his owner, Ryan. Scooter was adopted from the Westfield Animal Shelter by a local police officer in June of 2023. He had been in the shelter since May due to his owner passing away. ACO Margaret Terkelsen shared that with the help of Westfield Animal Shelter Heroes (a nonprofit that assists the shelter with medical costs), Scooter was able to receive a much needed tooth extraction, dental cleaning and other treatments before getting adopted. Scooter's sister Lucy, a 4 year old Mini Australian Shepard/Catahoula Leopard dog was adopted from Mississippi. Ryan shared that the two love playing in the snow together.