"The dog, from nearby Sebastopol, was rescued when she was almost blind from neglect by the Dogwood Animal Rescue Project in Sonoma County, where the contest was held". She was the only animal in this year's contest too big to be held by her handler. Post-surgery, Martha's eyes however, remain red and droopy.
The wrinkly and drool-covered rescue pup beat out the more traditional winners of old, tiny and hairless dogs to claim top prize of USA $1,500 along with a trophy and a trip to NY.
She didn't even have to try very hard - after taking to the stage, Martha lay down and took a nap.
The big-jowled crowd-pleaser will now be flown to NY for "media appearances", according to the organisers.
When she's not wowing the crowds, Martha lives on 11 acres at Burkard's home, where she hangs out with a St Bernard named Blue, explores the banks of a lake and rests underneath apricot and cherry trees.
Martha beat out 13 other dogs, majority neglected dog breeds, to get the crown.
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And although he didn't land one of the coveted guaranteed contracts that come with the first 30 picks, Demps said the opportunity to contribute in New Orleans is there.
Although numerous compliments Martha received were somewhat backhanded - an AP article described her as "gassy", and a New York Times story said she had uncontrollable drool - she warmed the hearts of the audience and the judges when she sauntered onto the stage and immediately plopped on her side, her loose skin too stretchy to not love.
Pug-ugly Martha was abused before being advertised on Craigslist, when she was rescued by Shirley Zindler, founder of Sonoma-based non-profit the Dogwood Animal Rescue Project. "We tell her every day".
The dogs were judged on audience reaction, first impressions and "unusual attributes". However, with his strong sense of smell, Moe was able to enjoy funnel cakes and other fried items.
The annual event to find the homeliest canine takes place at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in California, and it can be a dog-eat-dog competition.
The next three dogs in the competition were of the Chinese Crested breed, which often wins the trophies.
Numerous contestants were adopted.
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