Five-time world-champ competitive eater Joey “Jaws” Chestnut — wolfer of 62 wieners in 10 minutes at this summer’s Nathan’s Hot Dog-Eating Contest — was the clear choice of judge for the new PetSmart in Carroll Gardens, which celebrated its grand opening on Saturday by putting out a catcall for the “hottest dog” in Brooklyn.
The tail-wagging tourney drew a wag-tastic showing among Brooklyn’s prima donna pooches, but they were a tough nut to crack for the Coney Island gobbler who ended up being smitten by a sss-smokin’ Jack Russell-Beagle mix from New Jersey named Chloe.
The adorable bowwow bowled over Chestnut with her charm, personality and general cuteness, bragged owner Lila Branigan, who paraded her pride and joy, whom she rescued from a shelter four years ago, with lots of flair and a couple of costume changes: first as a can of beer, and then — what else? — a hot dog!
Chloe’s triumph came with lots of prizes and bragging rights, including a basketful of treats and toys, plus a year’s worth of free veterinary care from Banfield Pet Hospital, which operates inside the PetSmart as one of more than 770 Banfield veterinary hospitals at PetSmarts across the country.
The borough’s most kissable hound is lapping up her new-found fame and enjoying romping with all her new playthings, added Branigan, who found out about the competition from her brother, Max, a Fort Greene resident.
“Brooklyn is a very dog-friendly borough, and Chloe is definitely enjoying the fruits of her labors there!”
PetSmart [238 Atlantic Ave. between Court Street and Boerum Place in Carroll Gardens, (718) 852-2519].
Reach reporter Shavana Abruzzo at sabruzzo@cnglocal.com or by calling (718) 260-2529.
