Dog Who Helped Track A Child Taken At Knifepoint Wins The 2024 American Humane Hero Dog Award
Dog Who Helped Track A Child Taken At Knifepoint Wins The 2024 American Humane Hero Dog Award
A year-and-a-half-old Police dog, Bo who helped track a child taken at knifepoint in May, has won the 2024 American Humane Hero Dog Award.
According to a statement on the American Humane’s website, “the American Humane 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 Shelter Dogs.”
The American Humane who shared the exciting news noted that Bo emerged the winner of the 14th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards, in the Law Enforcement and First Responder category.
“American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, unveiled the winner of the 14th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards.,” a statement on their website reads.
“Bo, a year-and-a-half-old Bloodhound in the Law Enforcement and First Responder category—which is sponsored by Sam Rose—has been awarded the coveted title.”
Acknowledging the recognition, Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane said, “We are so excited to name Bo as American Humane’s latest Hero Dog, a distinction that is well-deserved for him and his handler David.”
“In a short time, Bo and David have done extraordinary work. As members of the Gastonia Police Department, the duo has worked tirelessly and saved many lives thanks to Bo’s courage and top-notch scent tracking skills. It’s these types of incredible stories about perseverance and dedication that this award aims to spotlight.”
American Humane Hero Dog Awards website, described Bo as “K9 Bo, a 17-month-old Bloodhound from Kentucky.”
They shared that Bo’s journey began in April 2023 when he joined the Gastonia Police Department in North Carolina. After completing rigorous training, he officially became a Police K9 in October 2023. Despite his young age, Bo quickly proved to be an exceptional K9 officer, excelling in tracking and search-and-rescue operations.
His keen sense of smell has reportedly been instrumental in numerous successful missions. He located missing persons, including an elderly dementia patient and an autistic child. Bo has also tracked down robbery suspects, even in challenging conditions with heavy scent contamination.
One of his most remarkable achievements was in January 2024 when he tracked a missing elderly patient over miles of difficult terrain. His unwavering dedication led to the patient’s safe recovery.
In another heroic act, Bo tracked down a 7-year-old child who had been abducted at knifepoint in May 2024, earning him well-deserved recognition and awards.
The American Humane explains that the journey to crown America’s Hero Dog began in June when hundreds of inspiring dogs from across the nation were nominated. From this pool, five semi-finalists were selected in each of five categories, giving the American public a chance to meet these incredible canine heroes.
After a highly competitive public voting process, the field was narrowed down to five extraordinary finalists. Ultimately, a blue-ribbon judging panel selected Bo as the 2024 American Hero Dog.
Bo and the other four finalists will be honored at the 14th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards. The other finalists include Dayo, a compassionate therapy dog who brings comfort to children and adults in hospitals, schools, and bereavement camps.
Sampson, a service dog, has been a constant companion to his handler, aiding in their recovery from a traumatic accident and inspiring them to achieve great things.
K-9 Niki, a military working dog who has served with distinction in numerous high-stakes operations and community outreach programs.
Penny, an inspiring survivor, overcame severe injuries and abuse to become a symbol of hope and resilience.
Bo along with the these incredible finalists, will be honored at at the 14th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards and Gala in Palm Beach on January 08, 2025.
