Berrien County Dog Advances to Quarterfinals in National Pet Competition

8-year-old Blaze owned by Derrick Glausier competes in 'America's Favorite Pet' contest

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An 8-year-old dog named Blaze from Nashville, Georgia has advanced to the quarterfinals of a national pet competition hosted by celebrities Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy. Blaze, owned by Derrick Glausier, made it through multiple rounds of the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition that began in January and benefits the PAWS organization that helps orphaned and injured animals. The winner receives $10,000 and placement on the cover of Modern Dog Magazine.

Why it matters

This competition provides a national platform for a local dog from the small town of Nashville, Georgia, which Glausier hopes will bring some positive exposure to the community. The competition also raises funds for the PAWS organization, which helps care for abandoned and injured pets.

The details

Blaze was selected to compete in the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition in late 2025. Voting in the competition has been suspended until February 16, at which point the public can vote to determine who advances to the semifinals and finals.

  • Blaze was selected to compete in late 2025.
  • Voting in the competition has been suspended until February 16, 2026.

The players

Blaze

An 8-year-old dog from Nashville, Georgia who has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition.

Derrick Glausier

The owner of Blaze, the dog competing in the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition.

Donnie Wahlberg

One of the celebrity hosts of the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition.

Jenny McCarthy

One of the celebrity hosts of the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition.

PAWS

The organization that the 'America's Favorite Pet' competition benefits, helping to care for orphaned and injured animals.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I believe it would give people in our community something to get behind, especially knowing that little Nashville Georgia, could possibly get some exposure on a national level.”

— Derrick Glausier, Blaze's owner (WALB)

What’s next

Voting in the competition will resume on February 16, 2026, when the public can vote to determine who advances to the semifinals and finals.

The takeaway

This competition provides a unique opportunity for a small-town dog and its owner to gain national recognition, while also supporting a worthy cause in PAWS. The community of Nashville, Georgia is rallying behind Blaze's success in the hopes of bringing positive attention to their town.