On the cover

Abigail in a photo for The 2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards
Abigail in a photo for The 2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards

After nearly a million votes by the American public -- and the opinions of an expert panel of celebrity animal lovers and dog experts -- a winner has been named this year's most courageous canine, which earned it the top title of American Hero Dog at the 2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards. The seventh annual event was recorded Sept. 16, but airs at 7 p.m. Thursday on the Hallmark Channel.

The awards were created to celebrate the relationship between dogs and people, and recognize extraordinary acts of heroism performed by ordinary dogs. More than 180 dogs were nominated in seven categories -- Law Enforcement/Arson, Emerging Hero, Guide/Hearing, Military, Search and Rescue, Service, and Therapy. Seven finalists, one in each category, will win $2,500 for their designated charity partner. The winning dog's partner receives an additional $5,000.

Celebrities involved in the production include Alison Sweeney, Vivica Fox, James Denton, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Cameron Mathison, Danica McKellar, Alicia Witte, Lacey Chabert and animal advocate Beth Stern.

-- Rosemary Boggs

Style on 10/22/2017

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