2007 Ugliest Dog Dead On Thanksgiving, Elwood Remembered As Not Ugly

As 2007’s ugliest dog dies on Thanksgiving morning, the owner of Elwood remember the odd-looking dog as actually not being ugly.

As previously reported by The Inquisitr, the 2013 world’s ugliest dog was named Walle and was considered a surprise winner because he just wasn’t that ugly.

The owner of the 2007 ugliest dog, Karen Quiqley, believes the same about her wonder pooch:

“I did not think he was ugly and didn’t think he would win.”

In fact, entering the the 8-year-old Chinese crested and Chihuahua mix in the world’s ugliest dog contest was never intended to focus on the exterior. Elwood was rescued from death because the breeder planned to euthanize him because he was “too ugly to sell.” Karen recalls:

“The truth is, when he came into my life, I knew there was a reason. I knew the night I took him home there was something I had to do.”

That mission was to raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets along with the importance of adopting homeless animals. Another message she wanted to spread was to be kind and accepting of differences… however ugly they may be.

As such, the 2007 ugliest dog had the chance to spread these ideas on Regis and Kelly, Anderson Cooper, Rachel Ray, and various TV shows all over the globe:

“Elwood has raised thousands of dollars for homeless animals and has helped many other important organizations. He was even asked to deliver the commencement speech at Gloucester County College — with my help — a couple of years ago. He was out to teach people that we can all make a difference if we really care.”

Elwood was only eight years old but the owners thought he was doing okay despite having some health issues over the past several months. So when the 2007 ugliest dog died on Thanksgiving morning, it was fairly surprising. Karen says Elwood “will truly be missed” but she will remember him has making people smile.