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K9 Arlo TikTok star earns 2021 AKC Paw of Courage Award

By Wesley Coburn

ORCHARD PARK, NY - NOVEMBER 29: A police dog on the field before a game between the Buffalo Bills and the Los Angeles Chargers at Bills Stadium on November 29, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - NOVEMBER 29: A police dog on the field before a game between the Buffalo Bills and the Los Angeles Chargers at Bills Stadium on November 29, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /
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K9 Arlo, one of the canine stars of TikTok, has just been awarded the 2021 AKC Paw of Courage Award.

The AKC Paw of Courage Award was given because of his heroic service in the line of duty, receiving two bullet wounds while working on a case.

According to the American Kennel Club, the AKC Paw of Courage Award is given “in appreciation for the work of dogs in the service of humankind,” particularly if they are able to honorably serve their community in some fashion, as with K9 Arlo’s duties as a police dog.

He is a two-year-old (roughly mid-20s in dog years) German Shepherd who works with the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office, which contains the capital of Washington State in Olympia.

K9 Arlo honored with 2021 Paw of Courage Award from the AKC.

While attempting to deal with a reckless driver on January 13, a pursuit began, and during the chase gunshots were exchanged, with K9 Arlo being hit twice, once in the shoulder and once in a hind leg. One of these bullets was lodged near his spine, requiring many expensive medical bills.

His injuries were treated at Oregon State Vet Med, and they were extensive, including a shattered vertebrae and severed artery.

His human partner, Deputy Turpin, has gained 2.5 million followers on TikTok as a way to raise money for his care, which amounted to at least $40,000 in veterinary bills. K9 Arlo is now out of the hospital, though Newsweek reports that his law enforcement career has come to an end.

“K9 Arlo of the Thurston County Sheriff’s Department is a shining example of the dedication,
selflessness and loyalty that working dogs exhibit in the line of duty,” AKC Executive
Secretary Gina DiNardo said in a press release. “He risks his life each and every day to protect his community and we are honored to recognize him with a Paw of Courage award. We wish him a speedy recovery as he heals from his recent injury.”

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He can be followed on TikTok at @K9Arlo, and on Instagram at the handle @OfficialK9Arlo.

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