Australia and New Zealand Rules and Requirements

Nominate your animal hero now

1. Owner/handler name *
2. Owner/handler phone
3. Owner/handler email *
4. Owner handler address *
5. Owner/handler job title (if appropriate)
6. Relationship with animal (i.e. owner, handler) *
7. Animal name *
8. Animal type/breed *
9. Animal age *
10. Why does this animal deserve a medal? *
11. Animal job (if appropriate)
12. Animals background / history

Please note as approved by Blue Cross UK, some of the criteria wording has been changed to incorporate Australian and New Zealand requirements.

Rules of entry

• Animals nominated can be either companion, working, service or therapy animals
• Animals nominated must be based in Australia or New Zealand
• Handlers nominating serving dogs will need the written permission of their Commanding Officer
• Nominations not made by the owner will need the written permission of the owner
• Up to two supporting statements may be attached if desired
• Entries can include supporting material including media cuttings
• Entries can include supporting material including media cuttings and photos of your animal
• By entering your nomination, you agree for it to be used in AWAMO marketing to promote the charity and its work

Judging criteria

• Has the animal done something to change or save someone’s life
• All entries will be judged on the story’s merits, even if the animal is linked with another organisation
• Animals can be considered posthumously
• Judges will consider the animals background – have they triumphed against adversity
• Judges will consider the owner’s background – have they shown remarkable courage or coped with tragedy or illness
• In order to celebrate unrecognised animal heroes, judges may take into consideration any previous awards or publicity received
• Judges will consider their emotional response to the story

Please note as approved by Blue Cross UK, some of the criteria wording has been changed to incorporate Australian and New Zealand requirements.