Like any dog lover, I have an appreciation for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. However, I believe all dogs should be celebrated even if they aren’t a perfect pure breed. This is why I love the American Rescue Dog Show, which aired on May 25. According to People magazine, the competition spotlighted canine companions who were rescued as a way to encourage adoption from shelters. 

Numerous rescue dogs were awarded the titles of "Best in Couch Potato," "Best in Underbite," and "Best in Snoring." However, one gorgeous pit bull named Capone took home the grand prize, "Best in Rescue.” The furry friend and their owner, Elisha Wright, also were recipients of a $100,000 grant, which was given to the San Diego Humane Society. 

The co-creator of the competition, Michael Levitt, shared that he was thrilled a pit bull won the American Rescue Dog Show. 

"If our show inspires more people to adopt pit bulls like Capone from shelters, or any dog in need, it will be a dream come true. Adopters of shelter pets are true champions," stated Levitt. 

The American Rescue Dog Show co-creator spoke about the competition during a May 2022 interview with KTLA 5. He shared that he became fond of rescue dogs after adopting a pup during a difficult time in his life. 

“I’ve been rescuing dogs since 2011, it’s been my heart and it means everything to me back in 2011, sadly, my sister was dying of cancer and it was at that time that my partner Mark and I knew we needed a dog in our life, so we rescued a pit bull named Trooper and he rocked our world,” stated Levitt. 

The producer shared that Trooper was a much-needed light in his life. 

“He came into my life during a very difficult time and I learned as I said, first hand, what it means to have a dog in our life and I think that all of us in the pandemic have learned that … I mean I don’t know how I would have gotten through these difficult times the last few years without having a dog in my life so now more than ever it’s the ultimate time to celebrate them and how wonderful they are,” said Levitt. 

He went on to say that he would like viewers of the American Rescue Dog Show to be inspired to give a dog in need their forever home. 

“I hope when people watch they recognize that they realize rescue dogs are just as good as dogs you can buy from a pet store or a breeder,” shared Levitt.