American Humane names a gentle giant as its 2024 Hero Dog for locating missing kids and other heroic deeds.

The American Humane declared the winner of its annual Hero Dog Award, who has a remarkable backstory.

The Hero Dog Awards revealed the finalists for the award, highlighting the outstanding work of these exceptional animals in various fields.

The country's first national humane organization dedicated to animals was established in 1877 and is based in Washington, D.C.

The competition highlights the top dogs in five categories: military, law enforcement, service, therapy, and emerging hero or shelter dogs in America.

In April, numerous pet owners nationwide submitted their dogs' names for the "Hero Dog" contest.

Bo, a law enforcement and first responder dog, has won the Hero Dog Award this year.

An 18-month-old bloodhound male from Gastonia, North Carolina, is employed by the Gastonia Police Department.

Since he was eight months old, Bo has been saving lives and solving crimes, according to the American Humane.

In 2023, Bo, a puppy handpicked by the police department, began his career in law enforcement with Sgt. David Rowland for further training.

Rowland's family grew fond of the dog after training and bonding with it.

The Gastonia Police Department had never used bloodhounds before, as they had only relied on German shepherds and other traditional law enforcement breeds up until now.

Bo is renowned for his distinctive character. Despite being easily scared by Halloween decorations, he is affectionately referred to as a gentle giant.

Bo is skilled at locating individuals and calming them down, making him a valuable asset to the department.

Bo has found many missing individuals, including an 11-year-old child with autism, a 7-year-old kidnapping victim, and several senior citizens, since he began working.

The Gastonia Police Department and Rowland are thrilled that Bo has been awarded the Hero Dog Award by Planet Chronicle Digital.

He said that all the hard work we've put in together pays off every time he brings a missing loved one back into the arms of their family.

Additionally, the national recognition for Bo will undoubtedly provide comfort to the community we serve, demonstrating that Bo's abilities are here to assist — whether it's reuniting families or delivering justice to victims.

Robin Ganzert, PhD, the American Humane president and CEO, stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that Bo has achieved more in his young life than many do in their entire careers.

She added, "Bo goes above and beyond to track down missing people and offer them love, comfort, and kisses during their time of need."

In November, the top dogs from each category will be recognized at a gala in Palm Beach, Florida, where they will stroll, smell, and race down a red carpet.