Julianne Hough Helps Kick Off “Hero Dog Awards”

(Pictured L to R: CEO and President of the American Humane Association Robin Ganzert, Julianne Hough and director of Cesar canine cuisine Tierney Monaco)

Earlier today, Julianne Hough attended the kick off voting campaign for America’s First Ever National “Hero Dog Awards” at VA Medical Center in New York City. In addition to performing an acoustic concert, Hough visited with patients and therapy dogs at New York Harbor Healthcare System today.

“I am thrilled to be working with Cesar and American Humane Association to raise awareness and celebrate these amazing dogs,” said Hough. “My two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels mean the absolute world to me, so I know how powerful the relationship with a dog can be, and I’m happy to be involved in such a great cause.”

Dogs from all around the country were nominated in the following eight categories: Law Enforcement and Arson Dogs; Service Dogs; Therapy Dogs; Military Dogs; Guide Dogs; Search and Rescue Dogs; Hearing Dogs; Emerging Hero Dogs.

Beginning today, dog lovers can log on to www.HeroDogAwards.org and vote for a hero dog whose story touches them. For every vote, Cesar Canine Cuisine will make a donation to American Humane Association to help provide more specially trained animal assistance therapy dogs to people who need them most. By voting for nominated dogs in the Hero Dog Awards, the public can participate in an exciting opportunity to truly make a difference in thousands of lives. Once finalists are determined, they will fly to Hollywood to walk the red carpet and be recognized at the celebrity-studded awards show on October 1, 2011 when the winning Hero Dog will be announced. The awards show will be televised on Hallmark Channel on Veterans Day, November 11, 2011.