Discovery Family collars dog show

Fledgling Discovery Family Channel (DFC) in the US has commissioned an original series about an animal expert who is able to transform shelter dogs into stars of the stage.

Berloni: Showbiz trainer

From Wags to Riches With Bill Berloni (working title) will debut in August on DFC, which was rebranded last October from The Hub Network, a previous joint venture from Discovery and Hasbro.

The series, to be produced by transatlantic wildlife specialist Earth Touch USA, follows theatrical animal trainer Berloni as he prepares dogs for the big time on Broadway, in the movies and on television.

It will air as part of DFC’s month-long dog-themed programming event dubbed Pawgust. It also marks Earth Touch’s first move in the factual entertainment genre.

Experienced content creator Sarah Davies became the channel’s VP, production and development last year after Discovery took control of The Hub Network.

Hasbro has maintained a stake in the network, which continues to air Hasbro Studios children’s content during the daytime.

Non-fiction shows aimed at families are shown on the channel during the evening, covering genres such as natural history, adventure, animals and science.