A local dog boasting seven years of service as an explosives detection canine is in the running for this year’s national Hero Dog Awards.
Organized by the nonprofit American Humane, these awards aim to honor “dogs who do extraordinary things, whether it’s saving lives on the battlefield, lending sight or hearing to a human companion, or helping people achieve their goals.”
Dzasper, a German shorthaired pointer from North Richland Hills, is one of five semi-finalists in the law enforcement and first responder category.
The 9-year-old dog did a seven-year tour of service with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as a certified explosives detection canine. He was stationed at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Dzasper has an impressive resume. In addition to working for the TSA, he worked at various festivals, multiple Dallas Cowboys and SMU games, and Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta.
His keen nose was also trusted to sweep former President George W. Bush’s airplane for explosives on at least one occasion.
After an illustrious career serving the public, Dzasper retired in the spring. His days are now spent enjoying leisurely activities at home with his owner Robert.
If Dzasper receives enough votes from the public, he and other winners from each of the five categories will be invited to the American Humane Hero Dog Awards gala in Palm Beach.
Last year’s event was a star-studded affair filled with inspirational speeches and tail wags.
A Texas dog named Kinley won the 2022 service and guide/hearing hero award for his work serving a woman who faced an array of difficulties following a sexual assault.
Another Texas dog appearing as a 2023 semi-finalist in the same category as Dzasper is K9 Riegel, a search-and-rescue dog from Troy. In eight years of service, she worked with law enforcement on both land and sea missions.
Other categories in the National Hero Dog Awards include therapy dogs, military dogs, and emerging hero and shelter dogs.
Supporters of Dzasper and other hero dogs can cast their vote here until August 25.
