Rescued dog turns ‘best of breed’

It’s a true rags-to-riches story.

Ten years ago, Gnatt a Manchester terrier from Texas was sick and near death with no owner to care for him.

Gnatt’s life changed when he was adopted by Lori Purdy of Forest Lake.

“He was pretty much skin and bones,” Purdy said. “He was emaciated. He was about five days away from being put down.”

After finding love and care, Gnatt can now take claim to being the best of the breed in an American Kennel Club 100-yard race competition in Florida last month.

Gnatt clocked in at a speed of 20 miles per hour.

“He gave it his all,” Purdy said. “He always gives it his all when he’s running. These rescue dogs if you just give them an opportunity they can go from nothing to being the best in their breed in something.

Gnatt hopes to repeat his big win at the American Kennel Club competition later this year.