WSF press release:  A U.S. Coast Guard security dog that protects our ferry system is getting national recognition. K-9 Niki is the winner of the Military Dog category of the 2024 American Humane Hero Dog Awards. Her exceptional career includes hundreds of high-stakes operations, vehicle sweeps and community demonstrations.

K-9 Niki with the U.S. Coast Guard has logged more than 4,000 working hours. Photo courtesy American Humane

The Belgian Malinois Shepherd mix also protects key events, officials and infrastructure. She often plays a vital role in public safety, safeguarding millions of people.

The annual Hero Dog Awards is a nationwide competition celebrating heroic dogs. Winners are named in five categories and one of them is crowned as the American Hero Dog. Congratulations Niki!