Meet Hugo

People's Choice Finalist

Meet Hugo

Breed: Chihuahua

Barking from: Waipukurau

What's up dog?

Hugo the Chihuahua is honorary office manager at the CHB Mail - a community newspaper in Waipukurau, Hawke's Bay. Hugo began working at the office to get time out, when a boisterous whippet puppy took up residence in his house. It was meant to be for a few weeks till the whippet settled down.
It's been four years now...it appears whippets don't "settle down".
At first Hugo lay on a blanket by his chauffeur's desk. Then his favourite receptionist donated him a proper dog bed. Then she bought doggy treats and hid them in her desk drawer and dished them out on his arrival at work and bang on 12 noon for his lunch.
Hugo is paid in pats. He can smell a dog-person a mile off and if one approaches the front counter he vooms out and poses for their admiration.
He knows the way to the coffee shop and demands his chauffeur takes him for coffee several times a week. On the way he greets his fans "Hi Hugo" and mugs new friends.
He once detoured into the chemist and ran riot in their back office until captured. He also once pee'd on teh wheel of an old man's mobility scooter.
People know Hugo and greet him as he passes. Nobody knows the name of the strange woman who follows him around....

2024 NZ People's Choice Award

We believe that no dog should be left behind.


Every dog that enters is eligible for the 2024 People's Choice Award. The winner of the 2024 NZ People's Choice will be decided by you, the people!


This year, we wanted to give the aroha back to our communities.


Every year, our campaign is supported and celebrated by a variety of incredible charities across Aotearoa, all of whom mahi tirelessly to make a positive impact for dogs in their respected communities.


This year, the winner of the 2024 People Choice's Award will have the value of their doggy prize pack matched and donated to a charity of their choosing.


In addition, every voter will have the opportunity to donate towards one of the 3 incredbile mental health charities or dog organisations.

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