Bolingbrook Puppy Competes In America's Favorite Pet Contest

BOLINGBROOK, IL — A Bolingbrook pup has a chance to win $10,000 and be featured on the cover of Modern Dog Magazine if she wins the America's Favorite Pet contest.

The America's Favorite Pet competition is hosted by Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy, and partners with Progressive Animal Welfare Society.

Owner Karolina Koltas said her German Shepherd puppy Nala is "our little miracle."

"No one wanted her, and she needed a chance. We brought her home, and she has turned into the sweetest, smartest, most grateful girl. She’s so loving, eager to learn, and has a huge personality," Karolina said.

Nala has made it to the group phase of the voting competition, and is currently number one in the rankings. The voting for group finalists ends at 9 p.m. Feb. 12.

Karolina said she found out about the contest from Facebook.

"Our goal is to win so we can get her professional training and help her become the best dog she can be," Karolina said. If Nala wins the contest, Kristina said she plans to donate $1,000 of the prize money to a local shelter or rescue "to help other animals get the same chance Nala did."

"Animals have always had a special place in my heart, especially the ones that get overlooked. I’ve never been able to ignore the ones who are unwanted, scared, or forgotten. Shelters like PAWS do the hard work every day, saving lives and giving animals hope. Nala was once the puppy nobody chose, and now she’s thriving. That’s why giving back is so important to me," Karolina said.

After voting for the group finals ends, there will be continued voting for a quarterfinals round, a semifinals round and then the finals round. The grand prize winners (one dog and one cat) will be announced on or before March 27, according to the contest rules.