American Kennel Club Awards Canine Hero with 2021 AKC Paw of Courage – American Kennel Club

The American Kennel Club (AKC^®), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading dog advocate, is proud to honor K9 Arlo of the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office in Washington with the 2021 AKC Paw of Courage^SM Price as he recovers from two gunshot wounds he suffered while working in the line of duty in January. The AKC Paw of Courage shows appreciation for the work dogs do in service of humanity. These awards recognize dogs who honorably serve their communities, making a big impact on the lives of their human counterparts.

“K9 Arlo of the Thurston County Sheriff’s Department is a shining example of the dedication, selflessness and loyalty that working dogs show in the line of duty,” said the Executive Secretary of the AKC, Gina DiNardo. “He risks his life every day to protect his community and we are honored to recognize him with a Paw of Courage award. We wish him a speedy recovery as he recovers from his recent injury.

K9 Arlo is a two-year-old German Shepherd dog who has worked for the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office in Washington with his partner, Deputy Turpin since late 2019. As deputies tried to get in touch with a vehicle that was driving recklessly last January, a pursuit was initiated. When law enforcement made contact with the driver, shots were fired and both the suspect and K9 Arlo were hit. Arlo was rushed to the emergency vet with two gunshot wounds – one to the shoulder and another to the hind leg. A bullet was discovered lodged near Arlo’s spine, requiring major surgery.

Using the social media app, TikTok, Deputy Turpin gained 65,000 followers for K9 Arlo, contributing to the $40,000 raised for his care. K9 Arlo is now home with his partner, Deputy Turpin and is expected to fully recover from his injuries.

Any dog ​​can receive a AKC Paw of Courage; the award is not specific to purebred dogs. Paw of Courage awards can be given to police K-9s, military working dogs, therapy dogs, service dogs and other dogs who work to make the lives of those around them better. safer, easier or just happier. To nominate a dog for a Paw of Courage award, click here.