Speaking to fans of the Dog Files, we know we are preaching to the choir when we say that dogs deserve our love, care and respect. But if you know of a particularly heroic canine companion, it’s time to get your nominations in for the third annual American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards™. Nominations may be made until April 30, 2013 at www.herodogawards.org.
Dogs come in all sizes, shapes, and functions, but consider which of the categories your hero dog could fit in:
- Law Enforcement and Arson Dogs
- Service Dogs
- Therapy Dogs
- Military Dogs
- Guide Dogs
- Search and Rescue Dogs
- Hearing Dogs
- Hero Dogs (for ordinary dogs who do extraordinary things or are just heroes to us)
Finalists in each category will be selected by the American public via online voting, and following the announcement of the eight finalists, the public and a special celebrity judging panel will have the chance to name the top American Hero Dog of 2013. Every finalist will be presented with a Hero Dog award for their feats of loyalty, bravery, and love, and win $1,500 for a selected charity partner. In addition, one finalist will walk away with top honors as the winning American Hero Dog for 2013, securing an additional $5,000 for their charity partner. The total approximate retail value of all prizes is $57,000 but the recognition is priceless.
Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of the American Humane Association admonishes, “For far too long, the brave work of our hero dogs has gone unnoticed. I’m happy to say that because of the Hero Dog Awards, the public is paying more attention than ever before to the invaluable work done by millions of dogs every day to keep us healthy, safe, and, yes, happy. I encourage all Americans who enjoy the love and benefits of this unique human-animal bond to nominate their own personal four-legged hero.”
Public voting will commence on May 7th. The eight finalists will be named later in the summer. Complete rules and entry information is available at www.herodogawards.org.
AHA is an heroic organization. Bravo for all your great work on a daily basis but especially what you have done in times of dire emergency like hurricane Sandy!
Congratulations to your entire organization for such true care and concern for all animals.
I have trying to vote for Hero Dogs yet it has posted that I already did this for the past 2 days. Not sure what is going on but it sure needs to be checked out. These Hero’s are missing out on votes from many people….