Hallmark Channel’s AMERICAN RESCUE DOG SHOW Introduces the Nation to Darling Duo of Helen Woodward Animal Center Alumni…
Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. (February, 15, 2019) – The Westminster Dog Show has nothing on two Helen Woodward Animal Center rescue pups about to strut their stuff on national television. Although the legendary competition declares an overall “best” to one purebred canine, it is questionable whether that dog could hold a candle to rescue pup Cooper in the category of “Couch Potato” or to rescue pup Pablo in the “Short ‘n Sweet” category. For those adorably fuzzy head-to-heads, you’ll have to tune in to Hallmark Channel’s AMERICAN RESCUE DOG SHOW, proving that rescue dogs can go paw-to-paw with the best. The two night special, slated to light up your President’s Day weekend, will feature more than 70 shelter dogs from across the country vying for top dog in the world’s most adorable categories. Helen Woodward Animal Center rescue pets, Cooper and Pablo, are ready for their close-ups on the Hallmark Channel, this Sunday, February 17th and Monday, February 18th @ 8:00pm PT. Viewers in other markets should check their local listings for airtimes.
The “2019 American Rescue Dog Show” is part of the Hallmark Channel’s cross-platform campaign “Adoption Ever After,” aimed at raising the profile of shelter pets. During the star-studded special, canines from various shelters and rescues will compete for grants for their alumni shelters from the Pedigree Foundation in such adorable categories as Best Wiggle Butt, Best Under-bite, Best Couch Potato, and more. All of the animals competing in “American Rescue Dog Show” were adopted to loving homes. The goal of the show is to inspire viewers to adopt their next dog from their local shelter or rescue organization. The special is hosted by Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O’Connell, with celebrity judges covering all the action ringside. The show is partnering with Adopt-A-Pet.com to also encourage local pet adoption. Website: https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/american-rescue-dog-show
FIRST ALUMNI COMPETITOR – COOPER: COUCH POTATO
Cooper, a sweet 2 -year-old cattle dog/terrier blend, arrived at Helen Woodward Animal Center by van in July 2018 from the Montgomery County Animal Shelter (MCAS), outside of Houston. The transport to San Diego (along with approximately 20 other orphan pets) was part of the Center’s ongoing mission to assist with the lasting effects of the 2017 hurricane. MCAS had neared crisis point with over 1,600 available orphan dogs and cats. Positive for ringworm on his arrival, Cooper was given x-rays by Center medical staffers who were shocked to discover seven white glowing objects in his chest, sides and back; buck shots.
The discovery moved Center Operations Director Jennifer Shorey, who made a quick decision. “I knew I needed to open my home and foster Cooper on his long journey and treatment ahead,” she said.
Although it is unclear whether the buck shots were a result of one or more instances of abuse, Cooper’s sleep patterns gave a better indication of his previous life. When he first arrived at Shorey’s home, the pup was so unsure of himself, he would close his eyes and sleep sitting up. There, he joined two other dog siblings who slowly provided him the friendship and guidance he needed to learn to relax and feel safe. Slowly, Cooper gained confidence and began to adore his nap time. His new, funny sleep positions are a true indicator to how far he has come in life and a great reason to root him on as BEST COUCH POTATO.
SECOND ALUMNI COMPETITOR – PABLO: SHORT ‘N SWEET
Pablo, a 5-year-old basset hound, arrived at Helen Woodward Animal Center with his counterpart and brother. Bonded, the duo were a bit more challenging to adopt out because they needed to go home together. Nicknamed, Wayne and Garth, the Center staffers fell in love with them and referred to them as the “land manatees” because of how close they were to the ground. Delinah Lebeck was at the Center the day they arrived. She assumed they would be immediately adopted because of their delightful faces and unique body shape. She thought that Pablo was one of the most interesting dogs she had ever seen because his legs were so short and stocky. On June 2, 2018, a month after arriving at the Center, Delinah realized that Pablo and his brother were still available and she rushed over to adopt them. Now, Pablo is a happy adoptee who gets to play with his mom and brother all the time. He is very loyal and protective of his new home.
Helen Woodward Animal Center alum Cooper competes in the “Best Couch Potato” Category.
His contender-profile can be seen here: https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/american-rescue-dog-show/meet-the-dogs-2019-american-rescue-dog-show/9#listheader.
Center alum Pablo completes in the “Short ‘n Sweet” Category.
His contender-profile can be seen here: https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/american-rescue-dog-show/meet-the-dogs-2019-american-rescue-dog-show/28#listheader
The Center is grateful to the Hallmark Channel for recognizing the incredible abilities and talents of rescue animals. To celebrate and support Cooper and Pablo’s participation in the 2019 American Rescue Dog Show, the adoptable pets at the Center are inviting visitors this weekend to tune in to the show and adopt their own “best in rescue.” From now through Monday, orphan pets will be showing off their special attributes on ribbons displayed on kennel-name-cards. Some of the recognitions, inspired by the show, include “Best in Fetching,” “Best in Smiling,” “Best in Singing,” and “Best in Under-Bite.”
The 2019 AMERICAN RESCUE DOG SHOW will air locally on the Hallmark Channel, this Sunday, February 17th and Monday, February 18th @ 8:00pm PT. Tune in to watch Cooper, Pablo, and other rescue dogs, prove that shelter pets can not only steal your heart but they can do anything they set their minds to.