Buster and Geno Crowned "America’s Favorite Pets" in Colossal Competition
In a heartwarming victory for furry friends everywhere, Buster, a charming bulldog from New York, and Geno, an inquisitive domestic shorthair from New Jersey, have emerged triumphant as "America’s Favorite Pets" in a highly competitive online contest. The competition, organized by the professional fundraising group Colossal, benefits the Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), a renowned animal welfare organization.
Buster and Geno’s journey to the top was no easy feat. They faced fierce competition from over 400,000 other adorable contenders, each vying for the coveted title and the accompanying prizes. The competition, now in its fifth year, has become a major philanthropic event, raising millions of dollars for animal welfare.
Buster, a resident of the Queen borough in New York City, captured the hearts of voters with his endearing personality and quirky habits. According to his profile on the competition website, Buster is known for his soccer-ball-spiking headbutts, his loud snores, and his insatiable love of roasted chicken. His gentle and comedic charm resonated with people across the nation, propelling him to victory in the dog category.
Geno, on the other hand, charmed voters with his inquisitive nature, his brave spirit, and his undeniable treat motivation. This domestic shorthair from New Jersey proved that cats could be just as charismatic and captivating as their canine counterparts. Geno’s profile highlighted his playful antics and his unwavering curiosity, qualities that endeared him to animal lovers and secured his place as the top cat in the competition.
Both Buster and Geno received a grand prize of $10,000, a generous reward for their victory. In addition to the financial prize, they were also granted the honor of being featured as cover stars on the prestigious "Modern Cat" and "Modern Dog" magazines. This exposure will undoubtedly further elevate their status as beloved ambassadors for animal welfare.
The annual online competition, which is based on a voting system, has become a significant fundraising platform for PAWS. This year’s edition alone raised an impressive $8.3 million for the organization. Over the past five years, the competition has generated more than $22 million for PAWS, solidifying its position as one of the largest philanthropic pet contests in the United States.
Colossal, the organization behind the competition, emphasized the significant impact of the event in a news release. They highlighted that the funds raised through the competition are crucial for supporting PAWS’s life-saving animal welfare programs. These programs include providing shelter, medical care, and adoption services to countless animals in need.
The success of the competition is not solely attributed to the adorable pets who participate. Colossal also strategically partners with well-known personalities to host each campaign. This year, "Modern Family" star Eric Stonestreet, a passionate dog-lover and animal rescue advocate, served as the host. His involvement undoubtedly added to the competition’s appeal and helped to attract a wider audience.
According to Colossal, the competition has a dedicated "host" partner for every campaign, ensuring that each event is engaging and impactful. Eric Stonestreet’s commitment to animal welfare made him a natural choice for this year’s edition, further amplifying the message of the competition.
The competition’s rules are straightforward and accessible to pet owners across the country. To participate, pet owners submit photos and profiles of their beloved companions. There is no registration fee, making it an inclusive event for all pet lovers. However, each entrant is limited to submitting only one pet, ensuring a fair and balanced competition.
The competition spans over nine weeks, during which pets advance through the ranks based on the number of votes they receive. Each voter is granted one free vote every 24 hours, encouraging widespread participation. For those who wish to support PAWS further, additional votes can be cast through donations, with each vote costing $1. The total proceeds from these donations directly benefit PAWS, maximizing the impact of the competition.
The competition recognizes both a dog winner and a cat winner, ensuring that both species are equally celebrated. The winners are determined based on which dog and which cat earn the most votes throughout the competition. This format acknowledges the unique charm and appeal of both dogs and cats, fostering a sense of inclusivity among pet lovers.
In addition to the "America’s Favorite Pet" competition, USA TODAY also publishes rankings of the best veterinary hospitals across the nation. For National Pet Week 2025, USA TODAY will release its list of top veterinary hospitals, providing valuable information to pet owners seeking the best possible care for their animals.
For those seeking a mental break, USA TODAY also offers the Daily Crossword Puzzle, a popular pastime for individuals of all ages. This engaging puzzle provides a fun and stimulating way to unwind and sharpen cognitive skills.
The "America’s Favorite Pet" competition, organized by Colossal for PAWS, stands as a testament to the power of community and compassion in supporting animal welfare. Buster and Geno’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of the bond between humans and animals. Their stories serve as an inspiration to pet owners everywhere, reminding us of the joy and companionship that animals bring to our lives.
The competition’s success in raising millions of dollars for PAWS demonstrates the generosity and commitment of animal lovers across the country. The funds raised will enable PAWS to continue its vital work in providing care and support to animals in need, ensuring that they receive the love, attention, and medical care they deserve.
