Every dog is a hero to someone. Even if our dogs haven’t saved lives or overcome trauma, they still give us love and support every day, which is extremely heroic. So, if there’s a dog in your life that you believe is a hero, now is your chance to get them recognized.
The American Humane Hero Dog Awards are now looking for nominations for the 2022 competition. The contest recognizes a wide range of hero dogs, including life-saving service dogs and inspirational rescue dogs. So, does your furry friend have what it takes to be this year’s “Hero Dog?”
Who Can Enter the Hero Dog Contest?
This year’s competition is split up into seven different categories. After the nomination period ends, the top three in each category will be selected through voting. Then, celebrity judges will decide on the best candidate in each category. After that, it’s up to the public to pick the best hero dog overall.
Here are the seven categories:
- Guide/Hearing Dog
- Law Enforcement and Detection Dog
- Military Dog
- Search and Rescue Dog
- Service Dog
- Shelter Dog
- Therapy Dog
Last year’s winner was a therapy dog named Boone, who suffered abuse and lost his back legs when he was younger. Now, he spreads joy and inspires others. He even has his own children’s book called Bow Tie Boone.
“Whether they protect us on the battlefield, help us with medical challenges, or just lighten our spirits with an enthusiastic kiss after a hard day, dogs save and improve our lives every day,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Humane’s president and CEO. “The American Humane Hero Dog Awards is our way of saluting our best friends.”
Important Dates For the Competition
Dogs can be nominated for the Hero Dog Awards until March 16th, 2022. Then, dog lovers will get the chance to help narrow it down to the 21 semifinalists. In the fall, the semifinalists will be invited to a special gala where one of them will become the American Hero Dog of the Year.
Here are some key dates for the competition:
- Nominations – January 13th to March 16th
- First Round Voting – March 30th to May 12th
- Second Round Voting – June 2nd to July 22nd
- Third Round Voting – August 5th to September 13th
This is the 12th annual competition, and every year, it gains more love and support. Some past celebrity judges included Betty White, Miranda Lambert, and Whoopi Goldberg.
If you know a dog who deserves this award, you can nominate them at herodogawards.org. Every dog deserves to be recognized, but only one can take the title.
H/T: ladailypost.com
Featured Image: Facebook