And the Winner is…Sam! Irish Kennel Club Announce Overall Winner of The Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2026 Sponsored by Agria!
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: February 2026
Sam, a nine-year-old Springer Spaniel from Co. Dublin, has been named the overall winner of The Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2026 kindly sponsored by Agria. The announcement was made at a special ceremony held at the Keadeen Hotel on Saturday 21st February, where Ireland’s most inspiring and dedicated dogs were recognised for their achievements in areas including law enforcement, search and rescue, therapy work, companionship and bravery.
Sam, the law enforcement category winner, has had a remarkable seven-year career with Revenue’s Customs Service. Since joining the detector dog programme in 2018 he has been instrumental in more than 1,000 drug detections with a combined street value exceeding €10 million, including over 6kg of cocaine uncovered at Portlaoise Mail Centre. Now stationed at Dublin Mail Centre and Parcel Hub, Sam can screen international postal consignments in just 30 minutes, a task that could otherwise take several Customs Officers hours to complete.
He has supported operations with An Garda S?och?na, the Criminal Assets Bureau, Dublin Airport and the Defence Forces, while also representing Revenue at public awareness campaigns, school demonstrations, National Services Day and the St Patrick’s Day parade. As he approaches his well-earned retirement, judges described his dedication, precision and contribution to disrupting criminal networks as truly outstanding making him a clear and deserving choice for the 2026 overall title.
The esteemed panel of judges included broadcaster and writer, Barabara Scully, President of The Irish Kennel Club Pat O’Boyle, Fiona Charles, Country Manager and Damien Hanley, Marketing Strategy Manager of Agria Petinsure Ireland.
Speaking at the awards ceremony at the Keadeen Hotel, Fiona Charles, Country Manager at Agria Petinsure Ireland said, “Today we celebrate heart, courage, loyalty and the extraordinary dogs who show us what those words truly mean. At Agria Ireland, we believe pets aren’t possessions, they’re family, and every hero honoured here reminds us just how powerfully dogs can change lives. It’s why we’re so proud to sponsor these awards, and why days like this matter so much. Congratulations to our winner, Sam, and to all the incredible finalists who inspire us with their bravery, love and unwavering devotion.”
All category winners received a trophy and a cash prize with the overall winner receiving the coveted overall trophy and an additional cash prize. Revenue Customs Service have donated both cash prizes to the NSPCA on Sam’s behalf.
The emotional ceremony also paid tribute to Rocky, recipient of the 2026 Special Honorary Golden Paw Award. A true pioneer in Irish search and rescue, Rocky broke new ground as the first general-purpose search dog in Southern Ireland and helped establish trailing and detection work nationwide. Although he sadly passed away in 2025, his legacy continues through the lives he touched and the ongoing work of Wexford K9 Search and Rescue.
Bravery Dog Award - Alfie the Bernese Mountain Dog from Co. Meath
After a devastating accident that left him blind, Alfie refused to let his circumstances define him. With remarkable courage and resilience he has adapted to life without sight and now confidently navigates daily life on his owner’s farm where he still loves to ride on the tractor and play catch with his squeaky toys at home.
Companion Dog Award - Monty the English Bull Terrier from Co. Cavan
Monty has been a constant source of comfort, loyalty and hope for his owner during an incredibly difficult period in her life. His unconditional love helped her rediscover confidence, routine and connection. Monty is proof of the quiet but powerful impact a devoted companion can have.
Life-Changing Dog Award - Oliver the Yorkshire Terrier from Co. Dublin
Every week, Oliver brings comfort and companionship to patients at Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services in Harolds Cross. His gentle presence offers reassurance, warmth and joy to those receiving palliative care. Oliver’s kindness has touched countless live and his impact is deeply felt.
Rescued/Rehomed Dog Award – Jackson the Border Collie from Co. Westmeath
Once frightened and unable to be touched, Jackson has transformed through patience, love and training into a confident and accomplished dog, even placing in Rally-O competitions within a year. His journey is a powerful reminder of resilience and the life-changing power of second chances.
Search and Rescue Dog Award - Jessie the Beagle from Co. Galway.
Jessie is Ireland’s first scent-specific trailing search and rescue dog trained to NSARDA standard, setting a new benchmark in lifesaving capability. Her work has already contributed to successful search operations. Her focus, determination and skill make her a true hero in the field.
Therapy/Guide Dog Award - Tori the Black Lab from Co. Dublin.
At St. Luke’s Hospital Tori brings comfort and calm to patients undergoing treatment. Her presence eases anxiety, lifts spirits and turns clinical spaces into places of warmth and love. Tori embodies the healing power of compassion and the healing power of connection through therapy animals.
Law Enforcement Dog Award & Overall Winner – Sam!
For more information, interview requests or images please contact rosie@aeconsult.ie
Issued by AE Consulting on behalf of The Irish Kennel Club.
E:??????????? aileen.eglington@aeconsult.ie / rosie@aeconsult.ie
M:????????? 087 2505007
Note to Editors:
About Agria Petinsure Ireland
Agria is one of the world’s leading pet insurers, having been established in Sweden in 1890. Agria arrived in Ireland through the acquisition of Petinsure in 2023 and is now a prominent feature of the Irish pet insurance industry, providing insurance for cats, dogs and horses. Our mission is to provide the best care for pets and peace of mind for their owners by providing insurance solutions and complementary services.
