Category Winners Announced for The Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2025 Ahead of Award Ceremony Saturday 22nd February
After receiving hundreds of heartwarming nominations from across Ireland, The Irish Kennel Club is thrilled to announce the seven category winners for the Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2025 kindly sponsored by Agria!
The awards aim to find and reward Ireland’s most courageous, brave and life changing canines in order to honour the love, companionship and service they give us on a day-to-day basis. Our esteemed panel of judges include Neil Kenna (barman from RTE’s First Dates Ireland), Andrea Smith (journalist and devoted dog lover), Pat O’Boyle (President, Irish Kennel Club) and Bernard O’Sullivan (Managing Director of Agria). They now have the incredibly ‘ruff’ job of choosing an overall winner which will be announced at a glittering award ceremony at The Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge on the 22nd of February. The ceremony will be attended by our judges, the canine winners themselves and their humans.
Category winners will receive a category trophy and a cash prize with the overall winner receiving the coveted overall trophy and an additional cash prize. *Our Law Enforcement category winner will be donating cash prize to the DSPCA.
In addition to celebrating our category winners, a very special honorary Golden Paw award will be presented on the day.
A huge thank you to Agria for their generous support and to everyone who took the time to nominate their incredible canine companions. The overwhelming response highlights the extraordinary bond between humans and dogs and the vital roles these four-legged heroes play in our lives. We wish we could give them all a trophy!
Press Note: Members of the press and photographers are warmly invited to attend the event from 12pm on February 22nd at the Keadeen Hotel, Co. Kildare, to meet the winners and capture their inspiring stories. Please email rosie@aeconsult.ie for any further details or queries.
So, without further ado The Irish Kennel Club proudly presents the category winners for The Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2025!
Bravery Dog – Frankie – Jack Russel – 12 Year Old Male – Co. Westmeath
In 2017, Frankie faced an unimaginable ordeal when he was struck by a car and left for dead. Found bloodied and broken, he suffered a cracked pelvis, head trauma that took his hearing and uncertain chances of recovery. But Frankie’s resilience never wavered. Now 12 years old, he continues to spread joy and love, comforting his owner’s mother during recovery, exploring the family farm and playing football with children. His deafness hasn’t slowed him down. Instead, he has become even more attuned to those around him. A true symbol of courage and perseverance, Frankie’s story is one of strength, love and the unbreakable spirit of a hero.
Companion Dog - Jenni – Retriever Mix – 8 Year Old Female – Co. Cork
At 3am, Jenni saved her owner’s life. Sensing danger, she jumped onto the bed, pulled off the blankets and persistently pawed until they woke up. The strange noise wasn’t thunder - it was the immersion heater malfunctioning causing the attic water tank to overheat and shake. Acting quickly, her owner shut off the switch and cooled the tank. A plumber later confirmed the wiring had burned out and a fire could have started. Without Jenni’s quick thinking, the outcome could have been devastating. Her intelligence and devotion make her a true hero.
Law Enforcement Dog – Jack – Labrador – 6 Year Old Male – Revenue’s Canine Programme
Detection dog Jack has been a key part of Revenue’s canine program for over four years, tirelessly detecting illicit drugs and cash. Jack’s impressive finds have led to multiple arrests and major disruptions to criminal activity. In 2024 alone, he detected nearly €4.9 million worth of drugs and over €21,000 in cash. Notably, in just two days in July, he uncovered €1.3 million worth of cannabis concealed in suitcases, leading to the arrest and charge of two individuals. Beyond enforcement, he represents Revenue at public events and school demonstrations, showcasing his vital role. Jack’s intelligence, dedication and impressive track record make him a worthy winner for the Golden Paw Award in the Law Enforcement category.
Rescue/Rehomed Dog – Larry - Lurcher/Whippet – 1 Year Old Male – Co. Carlow
Larry arrived at Haven Rescue with his siblings, who had all been abandoned. It quickly became clear that Larry faced some unique challenges, as he was missing an eye and completely deaf. At just 12 weeks old, he was rescued by a loving family and he has thrived ever since. Larry is an incredibly friendly and social dog, getting along with both people and animals alike. He has even learned sign language commands, demonstrating his remarkable adaptability and intelligence. Larry’s resilience and joyful spirit make him a true hero and an inspiration to all!
Life Changing Dog - Luna – Labrador – 1 Year Old Female – Co. Galway
Luna, a therapy dog at St. Paul’s Secondary School in Oughterard, has become an irreplaceable source of comfort and confidence for students. Since her arrival in November 2024, she has transformed the school experience for many, offering unconditional support and companionship to those who need it most. Whether easing anxiety, helping students build friendships or simply being a calm presence in difficult moments, Luna’s impact is profound. She listens without judgment, walks beside those who feel alone and encourages confidence in students who once struggled to find their voice. For the students of St. Paul’s, Luna isn’t just a dog - she’s their hero!
Search & Rescue Dog - German Shepherd – 6 Year Old Male – Co. Kerry
Trakr is a highly skilled black German Shepherd who works alongside his handler as part of the voluntary Search and Rescue Dog Association Ireland (SARDA Ireland) and Kerry Mountain Rescue. Together they assist emergency services in searching for missing persons across Ireland, navigating challenging terrains like mountains, woodlands and waterways. Trakr is trained to catch human scent on the wind and use his keen instincts to locate those in need. His loyalty, intelligence and stamina make him an outstanding search and rescue dog, and his remarkable work has brought closure to many families in distress. Trakr is truly deserving of a Golden Paws Award for his dedication and service.
Therapy/Guide Dog - Pop – Greyhound – 6yrs Male – Co. Dublin
Pop visits the ICU at Tallaght Hospital once a week, bringing smiles to both the staff and patients. Even as a visitor, it’s clear how challenging the ICU environment can be and it is so heartwarming to see the relief Pop provides. Over the past year, Pop has formed strong bonds with the staff who always have treats and a bowl of water ready for him. He even celebrated his 6th birthday in the ICU, with a special banner and cake in his honour. It’s a privilege to see how Pop brings comfort to such a special place, offering a moment of joy to those who need it most. Such a deserving winner of the Therapy/Guide Award!
Kindly Sponsored by Agria
Issued by Aileen Eglington & Rosie O’Toole, AE Consulting on behalf of The Irish Kennel Club.
E:??????????? aileen.eglington@aeconsult.ie / rosie@aeconsult.ie
T:??????????? 01 2948080
M:????????? 087 2505007 / 0879017809
