A COCKER Spaniel from Hemingfield who has battled digestive and pancreatic illnesses has been crowned the Chronicle's 'Dandy Dog' 2008.
Regan, who celebrated his first birthday last Sunday, was also given the honour of 'best looking dog' at the competition finals at the Metrodome on Monday night.
His owner, Louise Melling, 25, of Tingle Bridge Lane was overwhelmed at the whole experience and could not believe the outcome.
She said: "Myself and my parents are absolutely flabbergasted. Every week we couldn't believe it, we were all really excited to have a look in the paper." Regan, who also came second in the 'waggiest tale' category and third in the most obedient, had been on strict medication since he was born to help with problems he had with his stomach.
Louise said: "He had been very poorly, he is coming off his medication now but is still on a strict diet. "He really is coming into his own now though. He is so cheeky but with a really good temperament."
Regan behaved extremely well throughout the evening and received a new 'puffy bed and plenty of treats' for his efforts at the event.
