HJ, a Weimaraner from Fredericksburg, was recently inducted into the Iowa 2008 Animal Hall of Fame for his act of heroism which saved his owner's life during a heart attack.
    On most days, HJ, a friendly Weimaraner, is the official greeter and everyone's favorite friend at the Engelbrect's Farm House Bed & Breakfast in Fredericksburg, but in the early morning hours of Easter Sunday 2007, HJ became a hero.
    Around midnight, Loren Engelbrecht woke feeling sick. He tried to eat something to alleviate his nausea, but only felt worse. To cool off, he went out to the enclosed porch where HJ sleeps.
    After leaving the porch, Engelbrecht headed for the front parlor of the family's Victorian farm house to watch television and relax.
    Suddenly Engelbrecht developed an enormous pressure in his chest. The pain was so great he couldn't move or call for help.
    Engelbrecht's wife Dianna woke up to HJ nosing her arm. She wondered what HJ was doing in the bedroom and got out of bed to find her husband in the front parlor in severe pain.
    HJ never left Engelbrecht's side while the paramedics worked to save his life. The doctor described Engelbrecht's heart attack as a "widow maker." Only 50 percent of all people who have that kind of heart attack make it to the hospital.
    The Engelbrechts know without a doubt that Loren would have been found dead the next morning had it not been for HJ.
    In honor of his heroic devotion to his owner, HJ was nominated by his veterinarian Dr. Gary Van Engelenburg with Iowa Veterinary Acupuncture Clinic in Des Moines.
    HJ was one of three dogs to receive this award which is based on the animal’s heroism, companionship and professional contributions to people and the community.
    More than 30 animals, including dogs, cats and horses, from across Iowa have been inducted into the Animal Hall of Fame since its inception 10 years ago.
    The 2008 Hall of Fame winners will be publicly recognized in April 2009 during the Animal Rescue League of Iowa's annual Raise Your Paw Auction in West Des Moines.
    The 2009 Animal Hall of Fame nomination forms are now available online at www.iowavma.org (click on Pet Owner Resources).