Local dog wins big at Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2025 

The Irish Kennel Club crowned their Golden Paw Hero Dogs of 2025 at a glittering ceremony in The Keadeen Hotel on Saturday, February 22, which was attended by all the canine category winners and their humans!   

Pop the Greyhound scooped the top prize at the awards which were kindly sponsored by Agria.  

Pop and his owner Joe Rigby make weekly visits to the ICU in Tallaght hospital, bringing smiles to both staff and patients.   

Over the past year, Pop has formed strong bonds with the staff who always have treats and a bowl of water ready for him.   

He even celebrated his 6th birthday in the ICU, with a special banner and cake in his honour.  

The Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards aim to find, recognise and reward Ireland’s most courageous, brave and life changing canines in order to honor the love, companionship and service they give us on a day-to-day basis.   

All the Category Winners with the Judge

Seven category winners received their trophies, cash prize and hampers after a ceremony lunch and speeches by Pat O’Boyle.   

The esteemed panel of judges included Neil Kenna (barman from RTE’s First Dates Ireland), Andrea Smith (journalist and devoted dog lover), Pat O’Boyle (President, Irish Kennel Club) and Bernard O’Sullivan (Managing Director of Agria).  

All category winners received a trophy and a cash prize with the overall winner receiving the coveted overall trophy and an additional cash prize. *Our Law Enforcement category winner donated their cash prize to the DSPCA.  

An honorary Golden Paw Hero Dog Award was also presented to Tiger, the beloved companion of the late journalist Charlie Bird.

Charlie’s wife, Claire Bird and Tiger were both present at the ceremony to accept the tribute, celebrating the extraordinary bond between them and the lasting impact Tiger had in Charlie’s life.  

Golden Paw Hero Dog Award Winners  

Overall Winner – Therapy/Guide Dog – Pop – Greyhound – 6yrs Male – Co. Dublin    

Pop visits the ICU at Tallaght Hospital once a week, bringing smiles to both the staff and patients.

Even as a visitor, it’s clear how challenging the ICU environment can be and it is so heartwarming to see the relief Pop provides.

Over the past year, Pop has formed strong bonds with the staff who always have treats and a bowl of water ready for him.

He even celebrated his 6th birthday in the ICU, with a special banner and cake in his honour.  

It’s a privilege to see how Pop brings comfort to such a special place, offering a moment of joy to those who need it most.

Such a deserving winner of the Therapy/Guide Award!