The Walcott Truckers Jamboree, held annually at the iconic Iowa 80 Truckstop on I-80 in Walcott, Iowa, features many heartwarming events, with the Truckers Best Friend pet contest being a standout. Truckers traveling across North America with their beloved animals — whether furry, scaly, or feathered — cherish this event as it celebrates the unique bond between drivers and their pets. This year, from July 11-13, the contest exclusively featured canines, adding a delightful twist to the festivities.
Truckers and their dogs participated in three entertaining categories: Best Dressed, Owner Look-Alike, and Best Trick. The results of this year’s competition are as follows:
Best Dressed
First place in Best Dressed was awarded to “Zippy” and Frederick Rethwisch from Tomah, Wisconsin. Their costumes, inspired by Big Enos and Little Enos from “Smokey and the Bandit,” wowed both judges and spectators.
Taking second place was “Peanut” and Ivan F. from Orlando, Florida. Peanut dazzled the crowd in a service vest, cowboy hat, and striking red “Doggles” sunglasses.
Claiming third place was “Benji” (a.k.a. “Puggles”) and Dawn Chase from New Hartford, Iowa. Puggles looked adorable in a lavender service vest and matching leash, perfectly coordinated with Chase’s purple tank top.
Owner Look-Alike
Zippy and Rethwisch impressed once again, securing first place in the Owner Look-Alike category with their matching baby blue suits and vibrant yellow scarves.
“Hank” and William Shrake from Conway, South Carolina, took second place. Hank’s black-and-tan collar, paired with Shrake’s outfit and an American flag dog tag, was a big hit with the audience.
Earning third place were “Peanut” and Ivan F., likely due to their remarkably similar facial expressions.
Best Trick
In the Best Trick category, Hank and Shrake took the top spot. Hank delighted spectators by standing on his hind legs to take a treat on command.
Benji and Chase came in second, providing humor and entertainment. Benji initially refused to lie down on command but eventually complied, drawing laughter from the audience.
Third place went to Zippy and Rethwisch, hilariously recreating their movie roles by comically bribing the judges.
For additional highlights from the Walcott Truckers Jamboree, be sure to check out the victors of this year’s Super Truck Beauty Contest and see the top performers from the Trucker Olympics.
Source: The Trucker
Image: Iowa 80 Group
