Dogs make incredible impacts in the lives of their owners. Every day, they remind us of their incredible abilities and how lucky we are to have them in our lives. To honors dogs like these, the American Kennel Club hosts the AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE).

In their 26th year, these awards honor and celebrate loyal, hard-working dogs that have significantly improved the lives of their owners and/or their communities. Out of over 700 nominations, up 100 from last year, six dogs and one team were honored in their respective categories.

Team Award: Teams nominated in this category are groups certified to assist in search and rescue (human detection and disaster response), therapy and/or K9 police work.

Winner: “Crisis Response Canines” of Blackwood, NJ

With over 130 active teams across the country, Crisis Response Canines (CRC) is pioneering the field of animal-assisted interventions, establishing national standards that redefine excellence in crisis response. At the heart of CRC’s mission are their exceptional canine teams, each holding a recognized therapy dog designation and undergoing rigorous training in animal-assisted crisis response. These canines are meticulously selected for their ability to thrive in emotionally charged environments coupled with skilled handlers certified in Critical Incident Stress Management, psychological first aid, and trauma-informed care. In the aftermath of tragedies including mass shootings, natural disasters, and large-scale community trauma, CRC teams have been on the front lines, providing vital support. Their recent deployments during events such as the California wildfires and the New Year’s Eve truck attack in New Orleans underscore their unwavering commitment to communities in need. The presence of CRC teams significantly reduces psychological strain for first responders and healthcare professionals. Their unwavering dedication is a reminder that heroism often comes in the form of quiet strength and compassion, manifesting in four steady paws that walk alongside those in need. By fostering resilience and healing, CRC exemplifies the transformative power of love and support during life’s toughest trials.

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