NASHUA – In June, “Lilah” was one of 105 dogs allegedly being subjected to animal cruelty at a Merrimack County facility in the town of Bradford.

On Super Bowl Sunday, golden retriever Lilah will get to show off her skills, as she made the cut for the right to compete in Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl XVI.

According to a Thursday news release, more than 90 adoptable puppies from 61 shelters will compete for the “Most Valuable Puppy” award. The event is set for 3 p.m. Feb. 2 on Animal Planet.

After her rescue, Lilah was one of about 50 dogs taken in by the Humane Society for Greater Nashua. The organization states that it cares for more than 3,000 pets annually, while offering economical community clinics and dog training.

Society officials are celebrating Lilah’s success with a planned viewing party. This is scheduled for 2-5 p.m. Feb. 2 at the Anheuser-Busch Biergarten in Merrimack. Organizers said tickets will be $10 for those at least age 21. The price will include a hot dog bar, dessert and a draft beer.

For tickets, go to: www.budweisertours.com/locations/merrimack-biergarten.html.

In June, Nashua society officials helped rescue the 105 dogs, with 52 being adults and 53 being puppies. Prior to arriving at the society, the dogs were checked for infectious diseases and vaccinated.

In preparing for such a large influx, officials said they had a “clear the shelter” type of event, during which they offered discounted pricing for adoptions.

Many of the dogs were in bad condition, physically and mentally. Some dogs had underdeveloped muscle tone due to lack of movement. Many had ear infections or skin diseases. Some were even fount lying in their own feces or urine, officials said.

Chuck Mattia, assistant marketing director, added in June, “Many of them had never been walked; they had never seen a leash; none of them had a name.”

Mattia said the socialization aspect of rehabilitating the dogs was very challenging. It wasn’t going to be an easy process, but with help, things eventually became more manageable.

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