Ande, a Belgian Tervuren Shepherd. Photo: Heidi Alenius
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The Finnish Kennel Club has awarded the prestigious title of Hero Dog to 17 dogs this year, recognizing their extraordinary actions in saving lives. Additionally, another 17 dogs have received special commendations for their brave deeds. The Hero Dog title is given to dogs whose actions have significantly contributed to saving one or more lives.
“We congratulate this year’s Hero Dogs and commendation recipients.
Dogs possess courage, loyalty, and empathy, qualities that make them exceptional companions and heroes in their own right,” said Pirjo Onza, Executive Director of the Finnish Kennel Club.
This year, the majority of Hero Dog awards went to dogs that found people in need of help, including cases of elderly individuals in distress and those who were lost or in medical emergencies. Other dogs were honored for alerting their owners to house fires or life-threatening medical conditions.
Highlights of This Year’s Hero Dogs
Ande, a Belgian Tervuren Shepherd – While on a morning walk, Ande detected an elderly person with memory loss who had wandered from home, barking persistently to alert his owner. Thanks to Ande, the person was found safe and reunited with their family.
Daisy, a Labrador Retriever – Daisy discovered an elderly individual in poor health lying in bushes and refused to move until her owner checked. Her determined actions led to the person receiving immediate medical assistance.
Domi, a Dutch Shepherd – In the middle of the night, Domi alerted his owner to an unresponsive individual lying near their home. Domi’s vigilance led to the person being transported to the hospital in time.
Sulo, a Rottweiler – Sulo’s persistent barking drew his owners’ attention to a neighbor lying in distress in their yard. The neighbor, who had broken their thigh, was safely rescued thanks to Sulo’s quick response.
Laila, a Border Collie – Laila alerted her family to a fire on a nearby terrace, leading to a swift evacuation. The fire department credited her timely response with preventing serious injuries.
Isla, a Miniature Pinscher – Isla’s alert behavior led her owner to notice a person lying unconscious on the sidewalk below their balcony. Thanks to Isla, emergency services arrived promptly.
Nemo, an Irish Red Setter – Nemo heard faint cries from a neighboring apartment and guided his owner to discover a person who had fallen and was in need of immediate medical help.
The awarded dogs will be celebrated at the Koiramessut Dog Fair in Helsinki this December, where the Finnish Kennel Club and its partner, Agria Pet Insurance, will formally honor their acts of heroism. The Hero Dog awards have been presented by the Finnish Kennel Club since the 1970s, with the first official Hero Dog titles awarded in 1997.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
