Have you voted in the hero dog awards?

The American Humane Association holds a competition each year to find and recognize at least some of the exceptional hero dogs in the USA. Voting is open a few more days - polls close September 15 - so you still have time to make your voice heard.

There are eight categories:

• Law Enforcement Dogs
• Arson Dogs
• Service Dogs
• Therapy Dogs
• Military Dogs
• Guide and Hearing Dogs
• Search and Rescue Dogs
• Emerging Hero Dogs

The category for emerging heroes is intended for ordinary dogs who do something extraordinary. They might not be working dogs, but they are are heroes to their families.

Besides these eight categories, one dog is chosen as the winning American Hero Dog. This award gives a $5,000 award to a charity.

Last year, Elle the Pitbull won the American Hero Dog award. Elle does a phenomenal job as therapy dog. She also works with a children's reading program, and as a safety educator. She visits an elementary school, a middle school, and a retirement home on a regular basis and is called a "Hometown Hero" by the people in her community.

Who will win this year? Go to www.herodogawards.org/vote and help your favorite to the title!

~ Maria Sadowski ~