At a recent award show in Nashville, Sgt. Bo, a therapy dog owned by retired police officer Faye Okert, received the American Humane Society’s 2025 Hero Dog Award for his impactful role following the March 2023 Covenant School shooting. Although not a rescue dog, Bo provided essential comfort to grieving children in the aftermath of the tragedy, helping them feel safer and more at ease. Survivors shared how Bo’s presence helped them process their emotions, with one child stating that the dogs could “take your tears” during a difficult time. Bo continues to visit the school, demonstrating the profound emotional support therapy dogs can offer in times of crisis.
