Today, American Humane Society, the country’s first national humane organization, unveiled the winner of its 16th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards. The winner is Eddie, a three-year-old Labrador Retriever from Miami, Florida in the Service and Guide/Hearing Dog category sponsored by Waymo.
Eddie is a guide dog whose partnership with Luis Rodriguez has restored his independence and inspired thousands through their advocacy for the blind and visually impaired community.
The American Humane Hero Dog Awards is a nationwide competition that searches for and recognizes America’s standout dogs in five categories: Therapy Dogs; Service and Guide Dogs; Military Dogs; Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs; and Shelter Dogs.
Earlier this year, Americans nominated hundreds of inspiring dogs from across the country, and five semi-finalists in each of the five categories were selected. After a competitive public voting process, the field of 25 was narrowed down to five incredible finalists. The winner, Eddie, was then selected and announced live on the TODAY Show.
After years of navigating progressive vision loss caused by Retinitis Pigmentosa, Luis Rodriguez was paired with Eddie through Dogs Inc., a decision that transformed his daily life. As Luis’s first guide dog, Eddie provides the confidence, mobility, and support needed to navigate the world safely and independently. Through his extensive training and unwavering companionship, Eddie has become an essential partner in helping Luis live life on his own terms.
Together, Luis and Eddie have become advocates for greater awareness and understanding of blindness and guide dog partnerships. Inspired by the independence Eddie gave him, Luis began sharing their journey online through his “Miami Guy and His Guide Dog” social media channels. Their story has reached thousands of followers, educating the public about visual impairment and encouraging others with vision loss to explore the life-changing benefits of guide dogs.
“Eddie is a remarkable hero dog and has helped Luis regain so much independence and freedom,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “We are thrilled that Luis and Eddie are helping raise awareness of the healing power of guide dogs and American Humane Society is proud to be part of their inspiring journey.”
Today, Eddie continues to guide Luis through everyday activities, from neighborhood walks to new adventures that once seemed out of reach. Off duty, the affectionate Labrador enjoys relaxing with the Rodriguez family, earning a reputation as a lovable “70-pound lap dog.” Whether working in harness or relaxing at home, Eddie exemplifies the profound impact a guide dog can have on the life of the person they serve.
Eddie and the four other finalists will be honored at the 16th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards® and Gala in Washington D.C. on December 3.
