Meet Hero
Image courtesy of Dogs for Better Lives
Hero is a young Golden Labrador, born in Oregon in May 2025, who is currently in the Dogs for Better Lives Assistance Dog Training Program.
His training, once completed, prepares him to be placed free of charge to support someone with hearing loss, autism, or other disabilities, providing safety, independence, and confidence.
Buddies for Paws is proud to support Hero’s journey and future placement through our partnership with Dogs for Better Lives.
We’ll be following his journey from puppy school all the way to specialist service dog training. Whether he becomes a Hearing Dog, Autism Assistance Dog, or Facility Dog, we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way.
Latest Updates
Welcome Hero to the BFP Family
Say hello to Hero, an adorable yellow Labrador with a gentle heart and a big mission ahead. Named by Buddies for Paws through our partnership with Dogs for Better Lives, he’s already living up to his name as he begins his journey to become a life-changing service dog. As part of the Dogs for Better Lives puppy training program, learning the foundations he’ll need as an assistance dog.
Nov 25, 2025
Puppy Training 101
Now Hero is taking the next step in his development. Over the weekend, he traveled to meet his volunteer Puppy Raisers, who will help lay the groundwork for his future Service Dog career. From obedience classes to busy city streets, Hero will gain the confidence, skills, and real-world experience needed to succeed in one of our Assistance Dog programs.
Nov 25, 2025
Socialisation Day
Hero is practicing being calm around new people, sounds, places, and other dogs. Social confidence is a key part of assistance dog training
Nov 25, 2025
Not So Little Now
Hero is growing up so fast and learning all the right skills and tricks to be a real life hero for someone who will really need his support!
Nov 25, 2025
A Good Boy
Hero is a good boy and a little cheeky, tongues out!!
Nov 25, 2025
A Well-Earned Nap
Training days are tiring. Hero finished a full training session and fell asleep , he’s probably dreaming of treats.
Nov 25, 2025
Happy Holidays from Hero
Hero has been such a good boy this year, he will definitely be on Santa's nice list. Every day he is learning all the skills he will need to be the best assistant dog and a real life hero for someone who needs him the most. Here's Hero wishing you all a Happy Holidays!
Dec 22, 2025
How Support Helps
When you support Hero and Dogs for Better Lives, you help protect:
Veterinary care and food
Professional Trainers
Equipment and training tools
Placement with a future client in need of free charge
Support Dogs for Better Lives
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