ADA COUNTY, Idaho — A dog can be a best friend and so much more. Local therapy dog, Boo, who works at the Ada County Coroner's Office falls into the category of so much more. He has been nominated for the national "First Responder Paws Therapy Dog Award."
"For more than five years, Boo and his little sister Charlie have been working together as a tandem therapy dog team serving the Ada County Coroner's Office, where they provide daily emotional support to staff as they conduct death investigations, victim identifications, and autopsies," the office stated.
Voting is open to the public from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4. People can vote here. The winning dog gets a $2000 check, a doggie gift basket, a feature blog and a $25,000 donation made in their honor to the First Responders Pack Foundation.
"Those who perform these essential services for Ada County and surrounding counties face constant exposure to death, its victims, survivors, and the disturbing and traumatic details, which can take a heavy emotional and physical toll. Boo lightens this burden."
According to the coroner's office Boo and Charlie also work with Dispatch, the Victim Services Center, Courthouse, regional fire camps during wildfire season, veterans (through Red Cross' Service to the Armed Forces), students, and other populations.
"Boo is a certified therapy dog and dedicated member of Go Team Therapy and Crisis Dogs. He is known as "the Little Prince" for his compassionate, gentle, and tender personality," the office stated.
