IN a moment that has resonated well beyond the awards stage, a small pug from the Ipswich region has captured hearts across the country — and taken home one of the nation’s most emotional honours.
Honey, an assistance dog from Redbank Plains, has been named the Canine Home Hero Medal recipient at the 2026 Australian Dog of the Year Awards, presented by Puppy Tales.
The Home Hero Medal recognises dogs whose courage, intuition and unwavering companionship have made a life-changing difference within their own homes — and Honey’s story stood out as one of quiet strength, love and loyalty.
Once a timid rescue, Honey became an assistance dog whose devotion carried her human Vanessa through the final months of her life. For three months, Honey visited ICU daily, offering calm, grounding companionship in an environment filled with fear and uncertainty. Her presence not only supported Vanessa, but also became a source of comfort for her husband Joel and even hospital staff who witnessed her gentle resolve.
“When the chips were down and everything turned, and Vanessa desperately needed Honey, she showed us in every possible way the incredible assistance dog she had become,” Joel said. “She gives me reason to keep going. Routine. Purpose. Life. Honey is now my rock.”
Now living on with Joel, Honey continues to carry forward Vanessa’s legacy — a reminder that heroism does not always come with noise or spectacle, but often arrives quietly, on four paws, exactly when it is needed most.
The national recognition places the Ipswich region firmly in the spotlight, with Honey’s story resonating as a powerful example of the profound role assistance dogs play in supporting emotional wellbeing, medical recovery and everyday resilience.
The Australian Dog of the Year Awards, now in their sixth year, celebrate dogs whose impact extends beyond their own homes and into the wider community — from therapy and guide dogs to rescue, advocacy and sporting champions. This year’s judging panel described the stories as deeply moving, noting that in a world that has felt increasingly heavy, dogs continue to offer comfort, connection and hope.
For Ipswich locals, Honey’s honour is a poignant point of pride — proof that even the smallest local heroes can leave the biggest imprint.
As awards founder Kerry Martin reflected, it is often the quiet dogs who change lives the most.
And in Redbank Plains, one little pug has done exactly that.
