Canine allies of the law enforcement receive paw-sitive recognition and tasty treats this holiday season.
Almost everyone loves dogs but not all dogs get the festive treats they deserve during the holidays. Thankfully, the narrative is changing across Weber County. Last December 16, local businesses in the area worked together to give recognition to the unsung heroes of law enforcement. Our police dogs have steadfast dedication in ensuring public safety in ways that go beyond human capabilities. And that alone deserve more than a few scratches or pats on the head.
In Weber County, on December 16, 2024, Young Hyundai, a new Hyundai dealership in Ogden, offered Christmas presents to 18 police dogs that represent the Weber County. This effort was done in partnership with other local businesses, demonstrating the importance of our canine law enforcement allies. The dogs received gift bags filled with things that made their tails wag: treats, toys, and other useful items. In addition, their human partners, who deserved the same recognition, received Stanley Cups filled with treats.
The customer service coordinator of Young Hyundai, Edith Hornsby, was the bright mind and kindhearted behind this holiday gifting idea. According to Hornsby, she did the same thing around six years ago, but only for five dogs in her own yard. This year, she decided that she needed a project, and soon found out that there are 18 police dogs in the area. She became excited about the idea and brought it to her general manager and service manager. Both of them agreed that it’s a project that would have a great impact.
Hornsby shared that each Christmas gift bag for the canines had treats, toys, a blanket, and gift cards to Starbucks so they can enjoy some pup cups. The gift bags also contained key chains and hats for the human handlers.
The Beginning of a New Tradition
What happened at the Weber County could start a new tradition that focuses on giving recognition to heroic dogs. Hornsby herself is hoping that this won’t be the last holiday event they would hold for the working canines. It would be great to make this an annual activity and expand it next year to include Davis County, she added.
One of the recipients of their big bags of joy aka Christmas gift bags was Murphy, accompanied by Deputy Dalton Gallo. Both of them are from the Weber County Sheriff’s Office. As per Gallo, it’s nice to get a bit of recognition during the holiday season. He also mentioned that police dogs go through a lot of training that people aren’t aware of, so it’s refreshing to see events that acknowledge their hard work.
Hornsby agreed that we need more events like this. At the end of the day, when police dogs are done with work, they’re just like regular dogs who look for attention, treats, and toys. They work so hard for us and the least we could do for them is give them those big bags of joy.
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Choosing Holiday Gifts for Dogs
Holidays are not just for exchanging gifts with friends and relatives. It’s also the perfect time to make your pup (or other dogs) feel extra loved by giving them appropriate gifts. Not sure what to get for a furry friend? Consider these holiday gift ideas for dogs:
- Interactive toys – These are great for breeds that need lots of mental stimulation, and these usually include police dogs. Examples of these toys are puzzle feeders and toys with hidden compartments.
- Fetch toys – For dogs who love to play outdoors, a tennis ball or frisbee would make them go wild!
- Comfortable dog bed – Help facilitate a nightly rest for your furry friend by getting a comfy dog bed. Make sure to consider the size, age, breed, and even the favorite sleeping spot of the dog before buying.
- Homemade holiday dog treats – If money is a bit of concern, consider making your own treats for dogs. Try making dog-friendly Christmas cookies, peanut butter treats, or Snowflake shortbread cookies.
RELATED: What You Need to Know Before Gifting a Pet This Holiday Season
From The Club
I’m 100% in support of what Young Hyundai and other local businesses do for the heroic dogs of Weber County. To be honest, these kindhearted people and organizations deserve recognition, too! I agree that police dogs and their handlers do a lot for us and the entire public. I can’t wait for more law enforcement allies to be acknowledged next year, and hopefully, this gift giving activity would also spark generosity in other individuals.