(PRESS RELEASE) HERSHEY, PA — Lieutenant Dan, a two-legged dog who has overcome adversity, is the winner of the 2020 Cadbury Bunny Tryouts.
He was born with a birth defect causing a severe deformity of his hind limbs and tail. Due to being unable to correct the deformity and the pain his deformed hind limbs were causing, they were amputated. However, Lieutenant Dan, who is a hound dog, doesn’t let the adversity stop him from living his life to the fullest. This rescue pup loves to wrestle, play, run, hike and swim just like any other dog. He brings inspiration to those around him and keeps his family laughing with his silly antics and big personality.
Lieutenant Dan is the epitome of inspiration, passion and energy, showcasing that no matter what challenges you, you can overcome it,” said Ethan Mandel, Cadbury Brand team. “With almost 200,000 votes cast, America showed love and support to all of our finalists. We’d like to thank everyone who participated in our second annual Cadbury Bunny Tryouts.”
This year’s Cadbury Bunny Tryouts saw over 4,000 entries from all 50 states. With the help of Instafamous pet influencer Jiffpom, the Cadbury team narrowed down the competition to 10 finalists, including a mini horse, llama, duck, hamster, pig, dogs and cats. For the first time, America had an opportunity to influence the selection of the newest Cadbury Bunny by voting online, and Lieutenant Dan was the winner.
“The outpouring of support for our Lieutenant Dan was just amazing! We received so many heartwarming messages saying how much joy and inspiration he brings to people’s day,” said Laura Person, Lieutenant Dan’s owner. “We love him but to see the love America showed for him means so much to our family. We are thrilled for him to be the next Cadbury Clucking Bunny and his rambunctious spirit shows how excited he is as well.”
To celebrate his victory, Lieutenant Dan will be receiving $5,000, and the Cadbury brand has also donated $10,000 to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the longest-standing animal welfare organization in North America that serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals.