Cincinnati rescue dog wins People magazine’s 2024 “World’s Cutest Rescue Dog” title

CINCINNATI — Margot, a pitbull-American bulldog mix, boasts nearly 30,000 followers on her Instagram.

Her unique features stand out, especially her eyes, which are different colors.

What also stands out is her story.

“She was found by someone in the Walmart parking lot and I think she ran up to everyone in a friendly manner, so they called Cincinnati Animal CARE,” said Julia Zupan, Margot’s owner.

Julia Żupan

Zupan rescued Margot from Cincinnati Animal CARE two years ago – a decision she says changed her life.

“If she could crawl into my body, she would,” Zupan said. “She’s the biggest cuddler.”

Zupan always believed that Margot was “the cutest dog in the world”, but she wanted to test this theory.

She entered Margot in People Magazine’s Cutest Rescue Dog of 2024 competition. Competing against over 7,000 other dogs, Zupan stated she was shocked that Margot won.

“I was definitely surprised because a dog like her, a tyrant breed mix, had never won before,” Zupan said.

Julia Zapan

Winning came with a check for $1,000 that could be donated to an organization of Zupan’s choice. The kit also comes with a year’s supply of dog food – both of which Zuplan donated to Cincinnati Animal CARE.

“Our caregivers and adopters, all our volunteers, are wonderful, they all have huge hearts. So it’s not really a surprise. “Julia is a wonderful and kind person,” said Lisa Colina, senior communications manager for Cincinnati Animal CARE.

For shelter workers like Colina, it’s a full-circle moment.

“When you see a dog that was in our care and came from a background that we’re sometimes unsure about doing such amazing things, you feel really fulfilled,” Colina said.

Zupan hopes this victory will change public opinion about dogs that look like Margot.

“People just don’t think they’re going to find a cuddly, sweet dog that also looks like her and that’s just not true and I’m so happy that we can help change that narrative,” Zupan said.

People Magazine