HILL'S PET NUTRITION AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR ANIMAL WELFARE ADVANCEMENT ANNOUNCE 2026 WAGSIES AWARD WINNERS

The annual awards celebrate outstanding video marketing efforts across the animal welfare field

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hill's Pet Nutrition (Hill's) and The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (The Association) announced the winners of the 2026 Wagsies Animal Welfare Video Awards at The Association's annual conference in Chattanooga. The Wagsies honor animal welfare organizations harnessing the power of video to engage their communities and inspire action for pets in need.

"Great storytelling has the power to connect us, inspire us and move us to action. This year's winners bring that power to life through their extraordinary creativity and vision," said Carrick Massey, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Hill's US. "The Wagsies are a vital opportunity to elevate the stories of shelter pets and the dedicated teams who care for them. Their work has never been more important, and we're excited to continue our partnership with The Association to celebrate the organizations making a difference across animal welfare."

2026 Wagsies Winners

Finalists

Ten organizations were selected as 2026 Wagsies finalists and received $1,000 each.

People's Choice Award

The People's Choice Award was decided by general public voting on Hill's website, with one winner selected in each operating budget category. Each winner received a trophy and $10,000.

Professional Choice Award

The Professional Choice Award was selected by animal welfare marketing experts, with one winner chosen in each operating budget category. Each winner received a trophy and $5,000.

"Through the Wagsies, we see year after year the incredible difference animal welfare organizations can make by telling their stories in compelling ways," said Jim Tedford, President and CEO of The Association. "This year's entries have raised the bar once again by drawing attention to the important, life-affirming work shelters do to support the people and animals in their communities. Together with Hill's, we are immensely proud to honor these contributions from shelters across the country that shine a light on pets who might otherwise be forgotten."

Celebrating those who go above and beyond for shelter pets builds on Hill's longstanding commitment to animal welfare. Through its Food, Shelter & Love Program, Hill's has helped more than 17 million cats and dogs find new homes and provided more than $300 million in science-led nutrition to feed pets across partner shelters and rescues.

To learn more about the Wagsies and view the winning videos, visit HillsPet.com/Wagsies-Awards. For more information about Hill's Food, Shelter & Love program, visit HillsPet.com/Shelter.

About Hill's Pet Nutrition

Founded more than 75 years ago with an unwavering commitment to science-led pet nutrition, Hill's Pet Nutrition is on a mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Hill's is dedicated to pioneering research for dogs and cats using a scientific understanding of their specific needs. As a leading veterinarian recommended pet food brand, knowledge is our first ingredient with nearly 200 veterinarians, PhD nutritionists and food scientists working to develop breakthrough innovations in pet health. Hill's Prescription Diet therapeutic nutrition plus our everyday wellness product line, Hill's Science Diet, are sold at vet clinics and pet specialty retailers worldwide. For more information about our products and nutritional philosophy, visit HillsPet.com.

About The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

Established in 1970, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement serves as the only international membership and professional development organization exclusively dedicated to animal welfare and animal care & control leaders. The mission of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement is to champion, advance, and unify the animal welfare profession. For more information, visit www.theaawa.org.

CONTACT: Lanie Shores, [email protected]

SOURCE Hill's Pet Nutrition