American Humane Society Announces Five Finalists for 15th Annual Hero Dog Awards

The American Humane Society has revealed the five finalists for the 15th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards, selecting these remarkable canines from 25 semi-finalists in a nationwide competition that recognizes outstanding dogs across five distinct categories. These dogs represent the highest standard of canine service and companionship, demonstrating how dogs profoundly transform human lives through their dedicated work and unwavering loyalty.

Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society, emphasized the significance of these awards, stating that honoring these heroes celebrates the incredible bond between humans and their dogs that inspires us all. The competition categories include service and guide/hearing dogs, emerging hero and shelter dogs, law enforcement and first responder dogs, military dogs, and therapy dogs, each representing different facets of canine contribution to human society.

In the service and guide/hearing category, Donald from Fort Myers, Florida, has fundamentally changed the life of his veteran handler who lost her central vision following 25 years of military service. With Donald by her side, she confidently travels the country, hosts events, and even skis, with the dog bringing constant joy through dancing to music, playing hide-and-seek, and offering steady guidance through everyday life.

Lieutenant Dan from New Richmond, Ohio represents the emerging hero and shelter category. Born with a severe limb deformity, he lost both hind legs and his tail but never his zest for life. From hiking and swimming to appearing on screen, he shows the world what it means to be handicapable and inspires people of all abilities to embrace their differences. At home, he plays with foster pets, many with special needs, helping them gain confidence and adapt to their circumstances.

Harrison serves as Caldwell County's first electronics scent detection K-9 and one of only a few certified dogs of his kind in North Carolina. Specially trained to locate hidden electronic devices, Harrison plays a critical role in uncovering digital evidence essential to criminal investigations, particularly focusing on helping investigators in Internet Crimes Against Children cases. Beyond his investigative work, he serves as a source of comfort at community events and strengthens the relationship between law enforcement and the public.

K9 Ultra from Matawan, New Jersey, represents the military category as a Military Working Dog who is fiercely reliable in the field yet playful and loving at home. She is a skilled detection dog who locks into mission mode the instant she hears the command seek. Off duty, she enjoys hiking trails, choosing beach rocks, and barking at nighttime disturbances, demonstrating the balance between professional duty and personal companionship.

Sgt. Bo, the therapy category finalist, recently retired from the Metro Nashville Police Department where he served as a dedicated therapy dog offering comfort to countless children and adults in schools. In addition to trauma support, he helped de-escalate children in crisis and offered comfort to everyone he met. His journey from stray to heroism represents a powerful story of hope and love, with his soulful eyes offering safety, warmth, and unconditional care to those in need.

The Hero Dog Awards celebration will take place on January 9, 2026, with more information available at https://americanhumane.org. These five finalists demonstrate the diverse ways dogs serve humanity, from protecting communities and supporting veterans to inspiring those with disabilities and providing therapeutic comfort, highlighting the profound impact of the human-canine bond across multiple sectors of society.