NC dog up for Hollywood award

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At last check, Elle, a therapy dog from Roanoke Rapids, has more than 31,000 likes on Facebook. It's a testament to the difference she makes every day in the lives of children. 

Elle is a finalist for the 2013 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards. Elle's fans can vote online until Sept. 26 to help her take home the top prize. 

Elle’s mom, Leah Brewer, says she saw Elle’s photo online in 2008 and was smitten. She called to get information about her felt that she needed to save Elle from a potentially bad situation. 

Elle began her journey as a therapy dog in 2010. She started a reading program to help kids improve their reading skills. She also visits schools and retirement homes in her Roanoke Rapids community.

Brewer says Elle’s biggest challenge is her appearance and the stigma that people often associate with pit bulls. But Elle is changing perceptions and lives. Brewer says Elle is a dog that shares unconditional love and acceptance to everyone.

Whether she is working or out walking in the community, Elle provides friendship to anyone she meets, Brewer said. 

In preparation for the big trip to Hollywood, Brewer said, Elle has been polishing her well-practiced tricks to show to actress and animal advocate White.