Westminster's Sadie was a top 8 finalist in the Cesar's Hero Dog Award competition earning $5000 for the National Fire Dog Monument. 

 

The 400,000 public votes that were cast helped reach the charitable goal of a $200,000 donation by cesar® canine cuisine to American Humane Association, which will support therapy dogs to continue helping people in need across America.

 

Arson K-9 - Sadie's Story

In the darkness comes light, in confusion comes answers. "Man's Best Friend is an Arsonist Worst Nightmare". Sadie is a 5 year old Black Labrador Retriever. Sadie has been a nationally certified accelerant detection K-9 since May of 2007. Sadie works in the Major Crimes Unit of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. She has worked approximately 400 fires, and has assisted in cases resulting in numerous arrests. Sadie has never lost in court. Sadie has worked numerous high profile arson/homicide cases where her nose has detected critical evidence for collection and prosecution. Sadie has worked in extreme environments (high rise buildings, collapsing structures, snow covered mountains) and never missed a call to duty. Sadie has an incredibly friendly demeanor. She conducts approximately 50 K-9 demonstrations a year to promote fire safety and fire prevention. Sadie had been recognized for numerous awards including the "Golden Paws" Award for life-saving and heroic acts, the "Hero Medal" from the Masonic Lodge, and is a co-partner in being recognized as "Colorado Peace Officer of the Year". Any K-9 who unconditionally serves the public while placing their own safety in jeopardy deserves our praise and admiration. I have witnessed Sadie's commitment to her job and community first hand and it is second to none, which motivates me to nominate her for this honor. She is truely an ambassador for all working dogs, and I am humbled to be her partner.

Colorado's arson dog Sadie has been nominated for the American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards!

 

Help Sadie earn a donation to the National Fire Dog Monument by voting for her to receive the Hero Dog Award!

 

How to vote:

Fire investigator Russ Whitney of the Arson Investigation Unit, Salt Lake City Fire Department was recognized on November 12, 2010.  He received the Distinguished Service Medal on behalf of his outstanding performance and meritorious service.

 

Below is an excerpt from his award.  Further details are in the attached Microsoft word formats.

 

"Since September 2001 Fire Investigator Whitney has been the only Dog Handler for the Salt Lake City Fire Department and together with his K9 partner "Star" they have made a significant impact in the investigation of numerous fires and the prosecution of many arson suspects, not only in Salt Lake City but throughout Utah and Idaho.  Because of his personal sacrifice and dedication, and the many arduous hours spent in the care, training and deployment of “Star”, the team has perfected their trade and has become well respected in both State and local Fire Departments, representing the Salt Lake City Fire Department with honor."

 

Only 250 prints of the painting are available.  Each of the 250 prints are numbered and signed by the artist.  View our Limited Edition Painting page for details and meet nationally recognized Painter Mike Capser.