Honouring the Bond between pets and People

For more than four decades, the Purina Animal Hall of Fame™ has honoured an elite group of pets and service dogs for their extraordinary acts of heroism and bravery, which have saved human lives. From sensing deadly medical conditions to saving their owners from wild animal attacks, more than 140 inductees have been recognized including 120 dogs, 25 cats - and even a horse!

Since 1992, the program expanded to specifically recognize the key role of service dogs in protecting the public and providing independence, comfort and hope to so many Canadians. To date, 15 service dogs have been honoured for their acts of extreme bravery and courage.

New pet heroes are inducted annually into the Purina Animal Hall of Fame™ at a private ceremony in the spring.

The bond we share with pets can be lifesaving and inspiring. Come and learn about all the pet and service dog Inductees at PawsWay Pet Discovery Centre located at Harbourfront Centre in Toronto, and the permanent home of the Purina Animal Hall of Fame™. Open year-round, general admission is free.

Meet the 2010 inductees

The four 2010 Purina Animal Hall of Fame™ Inductees join
142 heroic animals. Here are their stories.

Gepetto

Gepetto, Wetaskiwin, Alberta

A normally mellow cat, Gepetto wailed incessantly as his home filled with more than 70 per cent carbon monoxide, prompting his owner to get help - in the nick of time.

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Patty

Patty, Westlock, Alberta

A Border Collie mix, Patty frantically alerted a farmer to the fact that a 2700 kg/6,000 lb agricultural machine had crushed his father. Thanks to Patty, the critically injured man was found and able to get the life saving assistance he needed.

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Chance

Chance, South Bar, Nova Scotia

For two days and nights during an unexpected blizzard, Chance, a Dalmatian/Fox Terrier mix, stayed by the side of a 7-year old severely autistic boy who had wandered into the woods near his home. By following Chance's tracks in the snow, rescuers were able to locate the boy.

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Bingo

Service Dog of the Year,
Bingo, Shilo, Manitoba

A Jack Russell Terrier, Bingo, is a unique hearing dog who is trained to bark when his charge, now an 8-year old boy, stops breathing. A true life saver, she has alerted the family countless times to their son's condition - in just enough time for them to get help.

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Do you know of a pet or service dog that has helped save a human life? We want to hear from you. Please send us your story and nominate a hero. The special cat or dog you tell us about might be inducted to the Purina Animal Hall of Fame™. Nominate A Hero

It's one of the longest-running and most beloved animal-recognition programs in Canada. Purina has been proud to honour pet heroes for over four decades. To read their inspiring stories or watch their videos, please select a year: