This fierce competition for the honor of “Worldwide Fido” and $15,000 cash was judged by Tamara Geller, best-selling author and personal dog trainer to the stars; Kevin Nealon, star of Showtime’s Weeds and NBC’s Saturday Night Live; and actress, Vivica A. Fox

“It’s about time dogs got some recognition,” said Kevin Nealon, “and something to take home rather than just a pat on the head.”

The lively crowd supported this notion with signs displaying their devotion to particular nominees and overwhelming applause.  The cutest dog award went to a little French Bulldog named Samson who entertained the audience with a brawl with his water bowl, and a Boxer named Phoebe was awarded “Best Dressed” in her two piece swimsuit.

American voted that the Owner Look-a-Like award should go to a Sheppard named Kaine and his owner Ashley. The judges agreed.

“I’m going to be a bit afraid to say, ‘girlfriend you look like a dog,’” Vivica said, but it seems that Ashley was more than honored.                      Editor: Heather Broeker above.

“He’s gorgeous,” she proclaimed to the crowd which gave a congratulatory applauded to Kaine.

Another Sheppard named Buddy was honored as a true canine hero for saving his owners life by calling 911.

Perez Hilton introduced the award for “Most Outrageous” which was given to Tommy from NJ because of his amazing diving skills.  After swimming in a pool he dove down to the bottom to retrieve a ball.

“Best Voice” was awarded to Sunny, the piano singer and “Best Trick” went to Gabe who, among other things, was very skilled at flushing the toilet and bringing his owner tissues after she sneezed.

It was a tough choice, but America voted and Bulldog Gabe became the Wordwide Fido winner.  He was eager to show the audience his pony trick that one him the highest honor of the evening.

Overall the Worldwide Fido Awards show was an enjoyable experience for us at BarkMagazine.com and a huge leap for dogs everywhere as they were finally honored for all the joy they bring.  Now that is something to wag a tail about!