Gastonia’s hero bloodhound Bo shines bright at the 14th Hero Dog Awards
The award-winning tracking K-9 also got his first glimpse of the ocean during the trip.
GASTONIA, N.C. — Bo, the award-winning K-9 Bloodhound from the Gastonia Police Department walked the red carpet at a prestigious awards ceremony last week.
Bo and his handler, Sgt. David Rowland, attended the 14th Hero Dog Award dinner in Florida on Jan. 8. The annual dinner puts the spotlight on dogs who have shown exceptional bravery and service in their line of duty, celebrating their contributions to public safety.
Bo is a beloved bloodhound who’s been instrumental in finding missing people, tracking down suspects and supporting investigations.
He first brought home the prestigious national recognition for being Law Enforcement Hero Dog of the Year in October.
The event, which celebrates outstanding police and service dogs from across the country, was held at The Breakers hotel in Palm Beach, Florida.
Many compare this ceremony to the Oscars, but for dogs instead of movie stars.
Bo’s standout case was helping track down a missing child in a densely wooded area. The bloodhound tracked the boy’s scent for 7 miles, leading to a safe rescue. Bo then helped calm the child, who was in distress, by licking him and playing with him. Sgt. Rowland says his tracking success rate of 95% is well above the typical number for K-9s.
Before the big night, Bo got to experience something new – his very first visit to the Atlantic Ocean. The police dog took a relaxing walk on the beach ahead of the ceremony.
At the event, Bo and Sgt. Rowland rubbed shoulders with some famous faces. Model and actress Christie Brinkley hosted the ceremony alongside TV personality Carson Kressley.
The police department also shared a photo of Bo taking an Uber.
Bo’s fame has skyrocketed in recent months. In December, Bo led Gastonia’s Christmas parade as Grand Marshal.