West Pasco Terrier Could Be Top Dog

West Pasco residents can root for a local canine to become top dog in a nationwide online photo contest.

Baarney, a Bedlington terrier who calls New Port Richey home, is one of 20 finalists from among 700 dog photos submitted to the USA Today online contest, owner Patricia Patterson explains.

Baarney's picture shows him helping decorate a Christmas tree with lights.

Voting ends Friday, Dec. 19. Go online to www.usatoday.com and scroll down the home page to the link, "Meet the 'Marley & Me' finalists." The contest promotes the opening next week of the movie "Marley & Me."

Because he looks almost more like a lamb, Baarney's name is spelled with an extra a because lambs make the sound "baa," Patterson elaborated.

Baarney also serves as "spokesdog" for Read My Paws, the Holiday-based company Patterson started in 2005. Read My Paws makes customized shirts for dogs and other doggie apparel and accessories.

Read My Paws is partnering with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Suncoast, in New Port Richey, by donating a portion of proceeds back to the nonprofit organization.

Baarney will appear this Saturday, Dec. 20, in a benefit for the SPCA Suncoast. He will be at Doggie Cakes, 5644 Main St., New Port Richey, to support pet photos with Santa.

For more information go to www.ReadMyPaws.com or call 866-934-5320.