Hallmark Channel announces its own Crown Media Productions will produce a new Original Special, BEST IN SHOW SHELTER DOG CHAMPIONSHIP, which premieres on the network Monday, February 12, 2018. The special will feature dogs up for adoption in shelters across America.
Rather than relying on the arbitrary areas of conformation, money, color and size, “Best in Show Shelter Dog Championship” will focus on the heartfelt traits and benefits of mixed breeds who typically live longer and healthier lives. The show’s official mascot is the network’s own rescued and adopted pet, Happy the Dog. In addition to starring in movies and specials, Happy the Dog is a certified therapy dog and emotional support animal for sick children.
“At Crown Media Family Networks, we are about more than platforms: our heritage brand is about heart and emotional connection,” said Bill Abbott, President & CEO, Crown Media Family Networks (home of Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, Hallmark Drama, and Hallmark Movies Now).
“‘Best in Show Shelter Dog Championship’ is another great opportunity to create programming that showcases the beautiful animals waiting for homes at your local shelter and it underscores our company’s commitment to shelter pet adoption until all of the shelters are empty. This dog show will prove that beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder and that all dogs are beautiful regardless of color, shape or size,” Abbott concluded.
The special will feature dog shelters across the country. Unlike other dog shows, “Best in Show Shelter Dog Championship” will advocate for mandatory spay-neuter programs as ultimately being “pro-dog.” All entrants will exhibit common dog “skills” and compete in a number of categories: Best Rescue Story, Best Smile, Most Cuddly, Messiest Eater, Best Tail Wag, Special Needs and ‘Best in Show’ for Dog with the Most Heart. A grand prize of $25,000 will be given to the shelter entering the canine who wins Best in Show.
In addition to competition in the ring, “Best in Show Shelter Dog Championship” will include heartwarming stories of courageous dogs who have overcome tremendous odds to be rescued and to find forever homes.
If you’re looking for someone who’ll go bananas every time they see your dog or cat, knows them so well they notice one hair out of place, speaks their language, knows their favorite treat AND movie and most of all become their second favorite human in the whole world, then you’ve found the right person! Lisa resides in Westerleigh and is a Dogtec Certified Dog Walker, NYC Certified in Animal Care and Handling, FEMA Animals in Disasters Certified, a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and Feral Colony Care Specialist and Red Cross Pet First Aid Certified.