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This Dog Show Celebrates The Glory Of Rescue Dogs

Written by: Dina Fantegrossi
Dina Fantegrossi is the Assistant Editor and Head Writer for HomeLife Media. Before her career in writing, Dina was a veterinary technician for more than 15 years.Read more
| Published on February 17, 2020

The 144th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show wrapped up this week with Standard Poodle, Siba winning the coveted Best in Show title.

Now that you have seen the finest in pedigree dogs, be sure to watch the country’s greatest underdogs compete in the third annual American Rescue Dog Show!

The adorable event features rescued pups from all walks of life competing in categories such as Best in Underbite, Best in Special Needs, and Best in Couch Potato. In the end, one pooch will be named Best in Rescue and take home $25,000 for their rescue organization!

Image via Instagram @HallmarkChannel

Who Is Competing?

25% of dogs that enter shelters each year are purebred. Since American rescue organizations are open to all dogs, so is the competition. Expect to see young, old, purebred, mixed breed, and even fur friends with disabilities.

Check out all the adorable 2020 finalists here!

When Is The Show?

Just like Westminster, the American Rescue Dog Show is a two-night event that will air on the Hallmark Channel Sunday, February 16 and Monday, February 17 at 8:00pm/7:00 central.

Image via Instagram @HallmarkChannel

What Can You Expect?

Actress, Rebecca Romijn and former NFL quarterback, Rodney Peete will host the event which is set up very similarly to traditional dog shows. Instead of the best in their breed categories, the 72 finalists will vie for titles in the following categories:

  • Best in Belly Rubs
  • Best in Couch Potato
  • Best in Ears
  • Best in Senior
  • Best in Snoring
  • Best in Special Needs
  • Best in Talking
  • Best in Underbite
  • Best in Wiggling
  • Best in Wrinkles

Each category winner will earn a $5,000 prize for the rescue of their choice.

Are you looking to add a rescue dog to your pack? The show’s website is tied into AdoptAPet.com and offers links to shelters and rescue organizations across the country including breed-specific rescues and bonded pairs.

Think your rescue dog has what it takes to bring home the 2021 title? Sign them up for next year’s competition!

H/T to Rover.com
Featured Images via Instagram @HallmarkChannel

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