In a tiny Norwegian town, the mayor barks instead of speaks—because it’s a dog! In 2019, the residents of the island of Værøy, off Norway’s coast, elected a dog named Tassen as their honorary mayor. Tassen, a fluffy Norwegian Lundehund, was chosen as part of a publicity stunt to boost tourism, and the locals loved the idea so much that they’ve kept him in “office” ever since. His official title? “Mayor of Happiness.”
Tassen’s duties include greeting visitors, posing for photos, and leading “paw-sitive” community events, like beach cleanups where he wags his tail to cheer on volunteers. The Lundehund breed is perfect for the role—they’re known for their flexibility (they can bend their head backward!) and were originally bred to hunt puffins on steep cliffs. Tassen’s human assistant, a local named Kjell Nilsen, handles the boring stuff like paperwork, while Tassen focuses on spreading joy. The town even made him a tiny mayoral sash, which he wears proudly during public appearances.
Værøy’s dog mayor has brought global attention to the island, with tourists flocking to meet him and enjoy the stunning fjords. It’s proof that sometimes the best leaders come with four legs and a wagging tail. Next time you’re feeling down, think of Tassen running the show—it’s a funny fact that’ll make you smile. Share this with your friends and come back for more on Factfizz!
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