The American Humane Society has announced Sgt. Bo, a four-year-old mixed breed therapy dog, as the winner of the 15th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards. The announcement was made live on the TODAY Show, marking the culmination of a nationwide competition that recognizes exceptional dogs across five categories: Therapy Dogs; Service and Guide Dogs; Military Dogs; Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs; and Shelter Dogs.
Sgt. Bo's journey from stray to hero is extraordinary. Rescued in Florida in 2022, he was paired with Faye, a Metropolitan Nashville School Resource Officer, after she advocated for a program that trains homeless pets as therapy dogs. Despite initial concerns about his scruffy appearance and skin allergies, their bond formed quickly during training. Sgt. Bo became her trusted partner and a living lesson to students that appearances can be deceiving.
Three months later, after the Covenant School shooting, Sgt. Bo and Faye provided steady comfort and safety for students in crisis. Sgt. Bo climbed onto buses, let frightened children rest against him, and remained a calming presence at reunions and school drop-offs during the community's darkest hours. According to Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society, "Sgt. Bo and Faye have brought comfort and emotional support to many children and adults in the Nashville community during profoundly difficult times. Their presence serves as a powerful beacon of hope and safety, exactly the qualities this award seeks to recognize."
Sgt. Bo tore his ACL in January 2025, prompting the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department to retire him, and Faye retired from the force soon after, not wanting to be without Sgt. Bo by her side. He still visits Covenant weekly and other local schools monthly, helping shy children open up and bringing smiles. Now enjoying retirement with Faye and her husband, Sgt. Bo continues to soothe people of all ages.
The four other Hero Dog Award Finalists include: Donald, a guide dog who prevented his handler from stepping into a construction hazard; Harrison, an electronics scent detection K-9 crucial in Internet Crimes Against Children cases; K-9 Ultra, a military detection dog who cleared a route during a vice-presidential motorcade; and Lieutenant Dan, a Treeing Walker Coonhound born with limb deformities who inspires people of all abilities.
Sgt. Bo and the four other finalists will be honored at the 15th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards® and Gala on January 9 in Palm Beach, Florida. For more information about the American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, visit americanhumane.org.
