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Meet the Brave Nominees for the 2025 Hambone Award
Every year, the Hambone Award recognizes the most unusual and sometimes humorous scenarios that lead pets to veterinary visits. This 17th annual event, organized by Nationwide Pet Insurance, showcases stories that highlight the resilience of pets and the dedication of the veterinary community. This year, the finalists embody the spirit of adventure—and a bit of mishap—that pet owners experience in their everyday lives.
From Bullfighting Dogs to Culinary Challenges
The nominees include an impressive array of pets, each with their unique tale that has both entertained and captivated audiences. Among the finalists is Ziya, a Belgian Malinois from California, who bravely stood up to a bull to protect his family, taking a kick to the face in the process. Then there's Wash, a mixed-breed dog from Tennessee, whose culinary curiosity led him to consume too many cicadas, resulting in a temporary loss of appetite. These stories not only showcase the adventurous nature of our furry friends but also the often humorous consequences that can ensue.
Lessons from the Hambone Award Nominees
What stands out about the finalists is not just their quirky predicaments but the deeper themes of love and loyalty between pets and their owners. These pets' brave and sometimes foolish actions lead their owners to moments of care and compassion that strengthen their bond. For instance, there is Salem from New York, who was suspected of swallowing an AirPod—a funny image that captures the curiosity of cats and their penchant for mischief. Each story illustrates how pets can bring joy even during crisis moments.
The Importance of Animal Health Awareness
Dr. Emily M. Tincher, the chief veterinary officer at Nationwide, has emphasized the significance of these stories: "Pets always find new ways to surprise us! The Hambone Award shines a light on those unpredictable moments and the amazing teams who help pets recover." It highlights the importance of being aware of pet health risks, as well as the role that veterinarians play in our pets' lives. Pet owners are encouraged to remain vigilant about their pets’ behaviors and environments.
Voting for Your Favorite Nominee
This year's voting is open until August 12, allowing animal lovers to participate in this lighthearted yet meaningful award. The winning pet will not only receive the prestigious Hambone Award trophy but also a Petco gift card, with second and third place awarded gift cards as well. By voting, pet owners can celebrate the joy that their pets bring, while prompting important conversations around pet health and safety.
Your Role in Raising Veterinary Awareness
Participating in events like the Hambone Award and sharing your own pet’s funny or tragic stories can create greater awareness about the unpredictability of pet ownership. Such narratives help to remind fellow pet owners that while pets can often be a source of joy, they also require careful attention to ensure they stay safe and healthy.
As seen through the eyes of the nominees, there’s much to learn belonging to the pet-owning community. The adventures of Ziya, Wash, and their fellow nominees not only leave us smiling but also encourage discussion on how best to protect our furry companions. Let's rally behind these extraordinary pets, vote for our favorites, and continue to promote issues of pet health and happiness.
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