Five Dogs Honored at Hero Dog Awards

Sgt. David Rowland and Bo (Getty Images)

(Press Release) PALM BEACH, FL -- On January 8, American Humane Society, the United States’ first national humane organization, held the 14th Annual Hero Dog Awards at The Breakers in Palm Beach and honored five dogs with remarkable stories. All proceeds raised went towards American Humane Society’s work rescuing animals affected by the California wildfires.  
 
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. 

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Beginning in June, Americans nominated hundreds of inspiring dogs from across the country and five semi-finalists in each of the five categories were chosen. After a competitive public voting process, the field of 25 was narrowed down to five incredible finalists. The winner, Bo, was then selected by a blue-ribbon judging panel. Bo is a year-and-a-half-old Bloodhound in the Law Enforcement and First Responder category who has rescued several missing people and helped police apprehend criminals using his keen sense of smell and tracking skills.  
 
The Hero Dog Awards Gala was hosted by longtime American Humane Society ambassadors, Christie Brinkley and Carson Kressley. During the event, American Humane Society also announced a significant rebrand, including a refreshed logo, a new website, and an updated tagline: “Rescue. Care. Protect.” To reflect the organization’s expanding global efforts in animal welfare and conservation, it has also introduced an international arm as Global Humane Society. 
 
“The Hero Dog Awards offers an opportunity for Americans to come together and celebrate remarkable dogs who make a lasting mark on our lives,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “We were thrilled to honor Bo and the Hero Dog Awards finalists and to kick off the new era of American Humane Society.”  
 
Thank you to our sponsors, American Airlines, Coleman All Natural Meats, Lulu’s Fund, Pets Best and Sam Rose, who have generously sponsored our award categories for the event.  
 
For more information about the American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, visit HeroDogAwards.org.  ​