The 2026 Cutest Pets on Parliament Hill contest has officially concluded, with winners crowned after weeks of spirited campaigning and over 19,000 votes from Canadians nationwide. Hosted by the Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI), the winners were announced at a gala held on June 2 at Metropolitan Brasserie in Ottawa.
Winners of the 2026 Contest
The winners are as follows: Cutest Dog 2026: Tuukka; Cutest Cat 2026: Coco; Cutest Other Pet 2026: Nugget; and Best Dressed Pet 2026: Bella.
A Record-Breaking Year
Now in its fourth year, the contest saw a record-breaking 142 entries from Members of Parliament, Senators, staffers, and members of the Press Gallery. Due to overwhelming participation, CAHI expanded the finalist pool in both the dog and cat categories from 10 to 15 finalists for public voting.
Celebrating the Human-Animal Bond
Dr. Catherine Filejski, President and CEO of CAHI, stated, "This year's contest once again captured the fun, personality, and bipartisan spirit that has made Cutest Pets on Parliament Hill such a beloved tradition. Beyond the excitement of the competition, this event is also an opportunity to highlight the benefits of having our pets live longer, healthier lives."
Gala Highlights
The evening featured a town-crier, pet-inspired cocktails, red carpet moments, and plenty of playful paw-litics as finalists and guests gathered to celebrate the special bond Canadians on the Hill share with their pets.
About the Canadian Animal Health Institute
Established in 1968, CAHI is the trusted, science-based voice of the Canadian animal health industry. Its members provide veterinarians and animal owners with medications and tools necessary to maintain the health of pets and food animals. For more information, visit www.cahi-icsa.ca.
Contact: Eleanor Hawthorn, Communications Manager, ehawthorn@cahi-icsa.ca
