American Humane Association's Hero Dog Awards were created in 2010 to celebrate the powerful relationships between dogs and people, serving as a catalyst to advance society's understanding of the human-animal bond. Dogs are an invaluable part of our lives every day; as companion animals, service and therapy animals, animal soldiers, police officers and first responders and emerging heroes. American Humane Association advocates for the American values of caring, compassion and hope. The first annual star-studded awards show, held in October 2011, and hosted at the Beverly Hilton Hotel by Carson Kressley, is a new and ambitious effort to continually recognize ordinary dogs who do extraordinary things.nnDuring a nationwide search over the course of six months, hundreds of dogs from all 50 states will be nominated and nearly half a million votes will be cast by the American public, culminating in the selection of eight extraordinary canine finalists. Each of the eight finalists will receive $5,000 from American Humane Association that will be donated to their selected charity partners. Who will be the 2012 American Hero Dog? Cast your vote today www.herodogawards.org/vote and join us at The Beverly Hilton on Saturday, October 6, 2012 where we will discover your 2012 American Hero Dogs!