'Souper' dwarf hamster wins Advertiser's Top Pet 2024 award

A ‘souper’ dwarf hamster has taken the top spot in the Advertiser’s Top Pet 2024 competition.

Two hamsters were the front runners this year, but Mr Soupie Soup has been crowned the most popular pet with 22 per cent of the public vote.

He narrowly beat Mango Cheesecake, who received 21 per cent of the vote.

Mr Soupie Soup’s owner Beth Norris, 21, said she couldn’t believe the good news but said it was a ‘great feeling’.

“It’s soup-er,” she said.

“I was quite shocked because he’s so small – I didn’t know that many people would vote for him even though I was campaigning for him.

“I’ve got a poster on the front door saying vote for him,” she said.

“It’s a lovely surprise. I’m over the moon.”

Beth intended to ‘shake up’ the usual competition lineup of cats and dogs by entering Mr Soupie Soup ‘because he does mean so much to me’ she said.

“I am chuffed that two hamsters have done it considering how small they are – Mr Soupie Soup is the size of my palm. It’s incredible.

“Mango Cheesecake came second – a worthy second place – I thought they would take it because I loved their little tiara in the picture.”

History of art student Beth has owned Mr Soupie Soup since October 2023 and said he’s named after a famous Andy Warhol print.

“He’s a Campbell’s dwarf hamster and I thought of Campbell’s soup cans. I called him ‘Soup’ and his full name is Mr Soupie Soup. His drag name is Souper Trooper like the ABBA song.”

However, she said Mr Soupie Soup is ‘averse’ to dressing up and often chews through his gifted hats and outfits from friends and family.

“He’s very cheeky – anyone who’s met him will [agree] – that’s where this drag name comes in because he’ll turn around and wiggle his bum at you if he doesn’t like you,” he said.

“That’s not to say he’s not friendly – he’s very friendly. He dresses up in theory, but not very well in practice.

“He loves his food – almost too much – but he’s a delight. Loves meeting new people and is a very chilled kind of guy.

“He’s just really great overall. I’m so happy that this little Souperhero has won.”

Mr Soupie Soup received a photoshoot and a voucher worth £40 to spend at Pet Care in Furze Platt.

Mango Cheesecake will also receive a £15 voucher for the family-run independent pet shop on Cannon Court Road.