The American Humane Society’s five finalists for the American Humane Hero Dog Awards were revealed Oct. 28, announced by AHS and revealed exclusively by TODAY.com.
The Hero Dog Awards is a nationwide competition that searches for and recognizes America’s standout dogs in five categories: therapy dogs, service and guide dogs, military dogs, law enforcement and first responder dogs, and emerging hero/shelter dogs.
“These amazing dogs have touched lives in ways that words can barely capture,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “Honoring these heroes is not just about their extraordinary actions; it’s about celebrating the incredible bond between humans and their dogs that inspires us all.”
The pooches compete in a quintet of categories:
- Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs
- Service and Guide or Hearing Dogs
- Therapy Dogs
- Military Dogs
- Emerging Hero and Shelter Dogs
Hundreds of dogs were nominated when the contest began in August before a semi-finalist representing each category was chosen, before opening voting to the public to determine the winner. The finalists in each category will be honored this winter at the American Humane Hero Dog Awards Gala in Palm Beach, Florida.
“Fifteen years ago, we created the Hero Dog Awards to honor the unsung canine heroes who make our lives safer, happier, and healthier each and every day,” Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane Society and co-creator of the annual Hero Dog Awards campaign, said in a statement.
“This year, America fell in love with five standout dogs who are quietly serving their communities and our country. These incredible dogs leap out of military helicopters, sniff out crime, and empower children during times of crisis. American Humane Society is so proud to give them the recognition and gratitude they deserve.”
Here’s a look at the five finalists competing to be the top dog.
Military Dog K-9 Ultra
Nominated in the military category, K-9 Ultra is a 4-year-old German shepherd-Dutch shepherd mix, handled by Coast Guard, Petty Officer 1st Class Alaina Whitaker in New York City, where they specialize in explosives detection. He lives in Matawan, New Jersey, and has a superpower of stamina.
Police Dog Harrison
Nominated in the law enforcement category, Harrison is a 3-year-old Labrador retriever, handled by Lieutenant Doug Dupell of the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina. Harrison has the ability to find hidden phones, hard drives, USBs and memory cards that could hold critical evidence other investigators potentially overlooked. His superpower is connection.
Therapy Dog Sergeant Bo
Nominated in the therapy dogs category, Bo is a 4-year-old mixed breed from Nashville, handled by Faye Okert, a former officer with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. He has previously let kids rest against him following a school shooting. He had to retire after tearing his ACL and Okert followed suit, refusing to work without him. Bo’s superpower is comfort.
Service Dog Donald
Nominated in the service and guide or hearing dogs category, Donald is a 6-year-old Labrador retriever, handled by Terry Galgano, of Fort Myers, Florida. Galgano, who lost her vision, has used Donald as a guide dog since they met in 2021. His superpower is intuition.
Emerging Hero Dog lieutenant Dan
Nominated in the emerging hero and shelter dogs category, Dan is a 7-year-old treeing walker coonhound born with contracted back legs and a severely deformed tail that learned how to walk with his two front legs. He’s handled by Laura Person, of New Richmond, Ohio. His superpower is spreading joy and confidence with every smile.
The winner will be revealed Nov. 7 on the 3rd Hour of NBC’s TODAY Show.
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Photo Credit: Michar Peppenster / Shutterstock.com