Search On For New Zealand's Canine Heroes

Search On For New Zealand's Canine Heroes

The first ever nationwide search for New Zealand¡¦s most heroic dogs has been launched by the New Zealand Kennel Club. Nominations open this week and the awards are open to all New Zealand dogs that have behaved in an outstanding way during the past year.

Kennel Club president, Mr Ray Greer said the search was being launched with the support of sponsor Purina PRO PLAN and would be an annual event.

¡§Canine Heroes is a positive way of recognising and applauding the enormous contribution dogs make to our social well being, pleasure and security,¡¨ he said

¡§Too often, the actions of a handful of irresponsible owners and their dogs attract the media spotlight,¡¨ said Mr Greer. ¡§We see Canine Heroes as an opportunity to try and redress the balance.¡¨

The annual awards will be presented to exceptional dogs in three categories:

„X Life Saving - open to any dog that during the past year has performed an act that prevents the potential loss of life in a civilian situation.

„X Service Dog of the Year - open to a dog that by a single act or over a period of time displays exemplary service to an individual owner, organisation or government department

„X Pet of the Year - open to any dog in private ownership that displays, in an exceptional way those factors that make the pleasure and joy of owning a dog such a beneficial practice.

Owners can enter their dogs through the New Zealand Kennel Club website http://www.nzkc.org.nz or by calling the club on 04 237 4489. Nominations close on Monday August 23rd.

Mr Greer said he hoped owners like Kelly Brislane of Dannevirke would tell their stories and put their dogs up for an honour. Earlier this year after a quad bike accident on his farm, Kelly was kept warm by his faithful dogs, Sue and Bonnie while he waited for rescuers to arrive. He spent four hours pinned under his bike and was thankful for the warmth his dogs provided as they huddled around him. The inaugural winners of the awards will be honoured at this year¡¦s New Zealand Kennel Club PRO PLAN National Dog Show in September.

In addition to the public recognition, winners will receive a prize package including return travel to and accommodation in Auckland for the National Dog Show, an engraved medallion and certificate, a year¡¦s supply of PRO PLAN premium dog food and a gift.

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