MARCH 3, 2026 – Throughout the decades, USO-certified therapy dogs have been instrumental in supporting the mental, physical and emotional health of warfighters as they deal with the stressors of a difficult job. Strengthening those needs maintains readiness and stability across the force.
Therapy dogs and their handlers play a critical role within the military community, providing stress reduction and a morale boost that few others can offer, so it’s only fair they get recognition for their outstanding contributions.
Voting opened this week for the 2025 USO Canine Volunteer of the Year award, which is administered through the Canine USO Program. The following four-legged friends are in the running for this past year’s top dog.
Cooper
Instant joy, comfort and calm — that’s what people feel when they meet Cooper.
Based out of USO Las Vegas, Cooper is a familiar and beloved face throughout the military community he serves. This cheese-loving Dalmatian has an infectious enthusiasm that helps bring a morale boost to veterans, active-duty service members and first responders.
During weekly visits to service members and their families at the USO Center at Harry Reid International Airport, Cooper easily takes a bite out of the stress of travel. He also volunteers alongside his older sister, Molly, during monthly visits to Nellis Air Force Base, while also making special trips to nearby Creech Air Force Base several times a year.
Maki
A gentle demeanor goes a long way.
At USO Ramstein in Germany, Maki has made an exceptional impact on military children. He offers a consistent presence in programs such as Paws and Pancakes and Teddy Bear Picnics, where he helps to create a calm, welcoming environment.
Highly motivated by treats, this miniature American shepherd has an intuitive nature and is great at making connections, helping even the shiest child gain confidence, comfort and reassurance. Maki is so beloved within his community that children eagerly collect his trading cards and stickers, and they ask for him by name at various events.
Penny
When it comes to the Yokosuka, Japan, USO center’s canine volunteer program, Penny is a seasoned veteran. This German shepherd/chinook mix helped jumpstart the program and is a weekly staple there, offering visitors consistent comfort, joy and connection.
In fact, over the past year, 400 patrons have taken part in the USO Therapy Tails program just to see Penny and get an hour of her love, which always brings a visible sense of calm and relief. A lover of pup cups and smiles, Penny has a gift for turning stressful days into lighter ones. She offers a level of love and peace that makes a measurable difference in the well-being of those who serve.
Ranger
Everyone loves a golden retriever, and Ranger is no exception.
Spreading his love across two Northeast states, Ranger’s impact reaches far and wide. He visits military units from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, and Dover Air Force Base, Delaware; attends fundraisers; and has even taken part in events celebrating America’s 250th birthday. One of his most meaningful visits was at a Coast Guard training center in Cape May, New Jersey, where he offered several recruits warmth and comfort during a rare moment of downtime.
This energetic yet gentlehearted boy loves hot dogs and has helped build community through special programs like “Reading with Ranger.” At Dover, the USO even held a birthday party for him. Ranger helps bring calm, joy and meaningful connection to service members far from home.
Sapper
As a top dog at the USO center at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sapper has undeniable star power.
This Alaskan husky brings joy, comfort and support to an extraordinary number of service members and their families — about 13,000 each month, according to the USO. He’s an integral part of daily life there, bringing his calm and friendly demeanor to everything from youth programs to holiday celebrations and events.
Outside the USO center, Sapper also attends deployment and homecoming events, which offer critical support and comfort to departing or returning soldiers. Sapper is known for making people smile and will happily jump for joy for treats.
Thanks to all these special pooches and their handlers for their exceptional dedication to our military community!
Voting for the USO Canine Volunteer of the Year will remain open through March 16, so make your pick while you still have the chance.
By Katie Lange
Pentagon News