UCSPCA Pup Now A Winner In Bret Michaels Contest

There's been quite the uptick in lookalike contests lately (in my opinion anyway), with people gathering from near and far to showcase just how much they look like a well-known actress, musician, politician, etc.

In fact, History.com released a piece earlier this year documenting the cultural phenomenon of celebrity lookalike contests, citing the following:

These competitions gave everyday Americans a fleeting taste of Hollywood glamour. Crowds gathered at movie theaters and county fairs, either dressed as their favorite stars or eager to see the people who resembled them.

Recently though, a local pup earned some national recognition for striking an insane resemblance to Poison frontman Bret Michaels.

Ulster County Dog Named Winner In Dress Your Pet Like Bret 2026 Contest

Just like every rose has its thorn, every dog deserves their time to shine, and for this Ulster County pup named Oakley, it was nothing but a good time in his big win.

In a social media post this week, UCSPCA shared the excellent news:

We are absolutely thrilled to share that our boy Oakley was one of the winners in the Bret Michaels "Dress Your Pet Like Bret" Contest! From the signature bandana to full rockstar attitude, Oakley was born to rock!  BIG THANKS to Bret, his band and his entire team (all of whom are animal lovers and regularly wear rescue shirts onstage) for choosing us—we are so excited for Oakley and thankful for the much needed $2,000 prize for the shelter!

Oakley was the only canine winner this year, with a chicken and reptile rounding out the top three award winners for 2026.

SEE ALSO: UCSPCA Director Honored as Champion For Animals

Looking For a Rockin' Dog To Add To Your Home?

Oakley, a senior dog, is actually available for adoption at the UCSPCA, and after more than seven years at the shelter, is described as being absolutely adored by the entire team but deserves to find his forever home and family.

He's a senior now, so he doesn't jump or run around as much, but he still loves all things water sports and a giant Jolly ball to roll around and chew on. Like most dogs, Oakley is "Livin In The Minute" and get him in the car with the windows down and he'll "Ride The Wind"

To learn more about how the UCSPCA staff took their love for Bret Michaels, Bret's passion for animals, and used that combination as a means to showcase Oakley's rockin' personality and hopefully find him a forever home, click here!