BAINBRIDGE ISLAND — Red carpet award ceremonies aren’t just for people anymore.

This spring, a local awards presentation will recognize heroic acts and heroic service by some of the most giving members of our local communities — dogs, cats, or other household pets.

An elegant, red carpet presentation, Spotlight on Community Hero Pets, will honor recipients in six categories, including search and rescue, law enforcement, therapy, military, and service animals.

Nominations are being accepted for the May 19 awards, to be presented in conjunction with the annual PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap benefit dinner auction.

“Every day, these unsung heroes give 110 percent in service to humanity,” PAWS Executive Director Mark Hufford said. “They keep our ferries safe, apprehend criminals, find lost hikers, guard our military arsenals, make ordinary living possible for differently-abled people, offer therapeutic services to seniors, and even keep us safe from intruders in our homes.”

Defining heroism is challenging, but stories from recent headlines jump to mind — the search and rescue dog who discovered the body of the killer of a National Park Service ranger, restoring calm to a frantic community; the law enforcement dog who apprehended a suspect who allegedly stole the gun of a Bainbridge police officer.

“While most of these are considered ‘working animals,’ one category will also honor the most heroic service by a companion animal (family pet),” Hufford said.

Anyone can nominate an animal they deem worthy of this recognition, and there is no cost to submit a nomination. Acts of heroism, or heroic service, must have occurred within the last three years. Nominations consist of an application form and photo submission. nomination deadline is April 1.

For forms, visit www.northkitsappaws.org.