Malton saw off the other two finalists, Leek in Staffordshire and Keswick in the Lake District, to claim the coveted title at a ceremony in London.
Some of the reasons for the victory include:
○ The local Puppy Parlour has opened a ‘Cuddle Cafe’ which encourages people to donate cuddles to the dogs to relieve stress
○ Dog first aid courses have been held (administering first aid to the dog)
○ Majority of businesses are dog friendly
○ The Talbot hotel is supportive of dogs staying and have dog friendly rooms
○ Many of the shops have resident dogs
○ There is support and help provided to local dog rescues
○ The Work House Gym allows owners to take their dogs with them while they train
○ Willow Green Estate Agents has a dog creche for the dogs that their staff own so they can take their dogs to work.
○ The Animal Art Gallery specialises in animal art and is planning to open a dog cafe
Angela Egan, a campaigner for the award in Malton, said: “We are thrilled Malton has been recognised with this award, which we have campaigned so hard for.
“Here in Malton, we have a fantastic reputation as being Yorkshire’s Food Capital, and so now we’re thrilled to be able to add another string to our bow as The UK’s Most Dog Friendly Town.”