You might know the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, possibly thanks to the 2000 Christopher Guest film “Best in Show.” This prestigious event has been around for 143 years, celebrating canine lineage and highlighting the finest breeds. Dogs compete across categories such as Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding, culminating in one lucky dog being crowned Best in Show.
But what about the mixed-breed pups and the lovable quirks of our canine companions? Where’s the spotlight for those who may not have the shiniest coats or the most impressive agility?
Enter the American Rescue Dog Show.
This show shines a light on the everyday adopted dogs. Hosted by Joe Tessitore and Rob Riggle, it embraces the heartfelt charm of the occasion. The judges for 2022—Paula Abdul, Leslie Jordan, and Yvette Nicole Brown—are all proud owners of rescue dogs.
The show features delightful categories such as Best in Ears, Best in Snoring, Best in Wrinkles, and Best in Belly Rubs, with a special category for Best in Underbite.
Michael Levitt, the show's creator and executive producer, is a passionate advocate for rescue animals. He has two rescue dogs, Trooper and Nelson, who serve as the mascots for his production company. Levitt even took a year off from producing to help dogs find forever homes. “As a rescuer, I’m saving one dog at a time, which is wonderful,” he shared, “but as a producer, I realized I could make a larger impact on a national scale. That’s how the American Rescue Dog Show came to be.”
And the show puts its commitment into action. Winning any of the seven “Best in” categories awards $10,000 to the dog's local animal welfare organization. The ultimate title of “Best in Rescue” comes with an additional $100,000 donation.
This family-friendly show aims to inspire viewers to consider adopting pets rather than purchasing from breeders. Across the nation, animal shelters are filled with loving pets eager for homes, and witnessing the charm of these dogs makes it difficult to resist the urge to adopt.
While the show aired on ABC at the end of May, it is currently available for streaming on Hulu.
Study Challenges and Discredits Negative Immigrant Stereotype