Officer Kora Wins National First Responder Therapy Dog Award

Asheville -- December 20, 2024: Asheville Police Department Press Release: The Asheville Police Department is proud

to announce that Officer Kora, a certified therapy dog, has been named the winner of the 2024 First Responder Paws Therapy Dog Award by FHE Health.

Competing against therapy dogs from across the country, Officer Kora received the honor following online voting, which culminated in her being named a Top 10 finalist on December 9 and the ultimate winner on December 13. This is the second annual award celebrating the vital contributions of therapy dogs to first responder communities.

Officer Kora, a 3-year-old Goldendoodle rescue, joined APD in April 2023 after completing eight months of rigorous training at Highland Canine Training in Harmony, NC, with her handler, Senior Police Officer Debbie LeCroy. Certified through the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA), Kora is one of only two certified therapy dogs in the region covering North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

“Kora is more than a therapy dog; she represents hope, compassion, and resilience for our community,” said Officer LeCroy.

Since joining the department, Kora has played a pivotal role in supporting the Asheville community and first responders:

Disaster Relief: Contributed to relief and recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene struck Asheville and Western North Carolina on September 27.
Crisis Support: Provides comfort to first responders during crises, assists crime victims, and helps those impacted by traumatic events.
Community Engagement: Regularly “paw-trols” downtown Asheville in her custom cart (complete with blue lights!), participates in school and community programs, and brightens lives with her vibrant personality and colorful outfits.
Symbol of Hope: Having started life as part of a rescue litter, Kora now embodies the compassion and resilience of the Asheville area.
Award Recognition and Prizes
As the award winner, Officer Kora receives:

A $2,000 check in support of her work.
A gift basket from Chewy.com.
A “Top Paws Therapy Dog Award” badge for recognition on digital platforms.
A $2,500 donation in her honor by FHE Health to the First Responders Pack Foundation, which trains therapy dogs for first responders.
The Asheville Police Department would like to thank everyone who voted for Officer Kora. Your participation has highlighted the meaningful work of therapy dogs across the nation and increased awareness of the need for more therapy dogs for first responders. 

Stay connected with Officer Kora on social media: Asheville PD Kora

Congratulations Officer Kora from WNCTimes!

Image: Asheville PD Kora's Facebook