#United States #New York #AKC Awards #Canine Excellence #ESPN

AKC Heroes 2024 Awards for Canine Excellence

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is set to air a heartwarming special, "AKC Heroes: 2024 Awards for Canine Excellence" on December 15th at 6 PM on ESPN2. This highly anticipated program promises to showcase the incredible contributions of dogs across various service categories, highlighting their invaluable impact on communities and the lives of their owners.

This year, the special will spotlight five remarkable dogs recognized for their outstanding service in areas such as companionship, search and rescue, therapy, and military support. The awards, which received over 600 nominations, emphasize the unique bond between humans and canines, celebrating dogs that have made significant improvements in people's lives. Each award category honors not just the dogs, but also reinforces the role of responsible pet ownership.

Gina DiNardo, Executive Secretary for AKC, expressed her excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to share five incredible stories from five extraordinary dogs that continue to make the lives of those in their communities better.” This year's nominees reflect a spectrum of contributions, from search and rescue heroes to dedicated therapy companions.

The awards categories include:

• - Exemplary Companion
• - Search and Rescue
• - Service Dog
• - Therapy Dog
• - Uniformed Service K-9

In addition to the honors, each ACE award recipient will contribute to a pet-related charity of their choice, further amplifying the positive influence of these noble animals. The 2024 AKC Humane Fund Awards are sponsored by prominent brands such as YuMOVE™, known for supporting canine health, and EUKANUBA™, a provider of premium dog nutrition.

For dog lovers and enthusiasts, this special isn't just about entertainment—it's a poignant reminder of the profound impact dogs have on our lives. Following its initial broadcast, the program will re-air on December 24th at 4 PM on ESPN2, providing an additional opportunity for viewers to witness the remarkable achievements of these canines.

The AKC Humane Fund aims to foster the joy of responsible pet ownership through education and outreach, promoting the indispensable role that our canine companions play in our lives. Through grants to domestic violence shelters and Breed Rescue organizations, the Fund nurtures a supportive environment for pets and their owners, with educational programs designed to strengthen their bond. Contributions to the Fund are tax-deductible and can further aid in their mission.

Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is dedicated to maintaining the largest registry of purebred dogs globally and promoting the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The club advocates for responsible dog ownership and the overall well-being and health of dogs. With over 26,000 competitions for AKC-registered dogs each year, the AKC continues to celebrate the deep connection between humans and their canine companions through various initiatives.

Mark your calendars now for the AKC Heroes 2024 Awards for Canine Excellence, showcasing remarkable dogs and the life-altering roles they play in our communities. Tune into ESPN2 for this special tribute to the unsung heroes in dog form, and share in the joy and inspiration that only our four-legged friends can bring.

For more information on the American Kennel Club and the AKC Humane Fund, visit www.akc.org or www.akchumanefund.org.