The reign of SAM has officially ended with the crowning of Archie from Florida at the World's Ugliest Dog Contest in June, 2006  SAM passed away last November and thus opened the door for another unique dog to step up.  It was generally accepted at the contest that if SAM were alive to compete, there would not have been a question that he would still hold his crown.  In fact, he was unofficially dubbed the "UGLIEST DOG EVER!"  Maybe there will be a new catagory for next year's contest!  But our sincere congratulations to Archie.  

As forSAM, he touched people in very different ways, from eliciting almost uncontrollabe laughter to being a little frightened, but mostly it was SAM's and Susie's relationship that enamored them to so many.  There can be love, affection and respect for even the seemingly unattractive souls of this world.  There have been emails telling Susie that more and more animals that had been considered unadoptable in the past are now being taken in and loved by new parents.  Although SAM will be missed by millions, he surely did his good deed while on this earth!  People have also indicated that they really want SAM's website and blog site to continue.  As long as there are more pictures, stories, and inspiration to pass on, Susie will try and continue.  Susie passes on her deepest thanks for all of the support she has received from so many thousands of you.