A therapy dog from New Richmond is one of just 25 inspiring dogs across the country who are semifinalists for a big award from the American Humane Society (AHS).
Lieutenant Dan is a 7-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound who was born with a severe limb deformity that led to both his back legs, as well as his tail, needing to be amputated. Despite this, Lieutenant Dan has never lost his zest for life, says his owner, Laura Person. He swims, hikes, appears on screen and shows the world what it means to be handicapable.
“His joyful spirit inspires people of all abilities to embrace their differences. At home, Lieutenant Dan plays with foster pets — many with special needs — helping them gain confidence and live life to the fullest,” reads his bio on the AHS’ voting site.
Now, Lieutenant Dan is one of 25 semifinalists in the AHS’ 2025 Hero Dog Awards. The nationwide competition searches for and recognizes America’s standout pups in five categories: Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs, Service and Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Military Dogs, and Emerging Hero Dogs.
The AHS says the winners are ordinary dogs who do extraordinary things, like saving lives as first responders, aiding humans with sight or hearing or just by inspiring their communities. Lieutenant Dan is nominated in the Emerging Hero category.
When it comes to Lieutenant Dan, Person said he showed his heroism during his first visit to a local adult program as a therapy dog. They said they watched in awe as people who were normally shy or withdrawn began to smile, laugh and reach out to connect with Lieutenant Dan present.
“Seeing how some of the adults came out of their shells simply by meeting him was incredibly heartwarming and a powerful reminder of the healing impact animals can have on the human spirit,” reads his bio.
Voting is now open to name the winners of the Hero Dog Awards. You can vote for Lieutenant Dan here.
And this isn’t Lieutenant Dan’s first time competing for a big prize. The pup was named the 2020 Cadbury Easter Bunny during the brand’s annual tryout.
You can learn more about Lieutenant Dan on his website or follow him on Instagram at @lieutenant_dan_the_twc.
This article appears in Aug 20 – Sep 2, 2025.
