Senior Rescue Dog From Reno Could Win $10,000 For Homeless Pets — But He Needs Your Help

A small rescue dog from Reno is suddenly playing on a very big stage.

Peanut, a senior rescue pup with a growing online following, is officially in the running for “Best Micro Influencer” in the Pet Lovers’ Choice Awards — and his supporters say this is about far more than bragging rights.

If Peanut takes the title, the win could translate into real, immediate help for homeless dogs in northern Nevada and beyond.

Inside The Pet Lovers’ Choice Micro Influencer Contest

The Pet Lovers’ Choice Awards is a national, fan-voted competition that celebrates pets who have built loyal online communities, particularly those using their platforms to advocate for animals in need.

The “Best Micro Influencer” category spotlights accounts with smaller but highly engaged followings, often run by rescue pets whose stories resonate far beyond social media.

Peanut is one of the featured contenders this year, representing Reno in a field packed with pets from across the country.

Why Peanut’s Run Has Real Stakes

A win for Peanut would come with a $10,000 cash prize, and his family has already made clear the money would be donated to help homeless dogs.

A portion is planned to support Boxers and Buddies, a Reno-based rescue that focuses heavily on senior and special-needs dogs.

The mission is not theoretical. Peanut’s household is currently fostering a 16-year-old hospice dog named Harley through Boxers and Buddies, offering a glimpse of exactly the type of dogs this campaign is designed to help — older pups who are often overlooked but still deeply loved.

How Voting Works And Where The Money Goes

Voting for Peanut is already underway and runs through Tuesday, February 10, giving supporters time to build daily momentum.

Each person can cast one free vote per day.

There is also an option to purchase additional votes, and 51% of the proceeds from paid votes are donated directly to Best Friends Animal Society, one of the largest animal welfare organizations in the United States.

Where To Cast Your Vote For Peanut

Supporters can vote for Peanut by visiting his official Pet Lovers’ Choice Awards contestant page and submitting their daily free vote.

Sharing the link with friends, family, and fellow dog lovers helps amplify the campaign and increases its overall impact.

While the contest is national, Peanut’s supporters say the heart of the effort remains local — turning one Reno rescue dog’s online presence into tangible support for dogs still waiting for homes.

How Supporters Can Make A Difference

Voting once a day takes seconds, but the potential ripple effect is enormous. A single win could fund medical care, foster support, and second chances for dogs who might otherwise be passed over.

For those able to go further, purchasing additional votes helps fund Best Friends Animal Society’s nationwide rescue work while boosting Peanut’s chances of securing a prize that will be redirected to dogs like Harley, quietly proving that even the smallest influencers can make an outsized difference.