Last month, we celebrated and honored exceptional people, organizations and animals who have showed continued dedication and commitment to the improvement of animal welfare at our annual Humane Awards Luncheon.

One Wisconsin dog with an inspiring story was honored with the ASPCA Dog of the Year Award for his incredible work in his community to help inspire, comfort and educate. Born without eyes and disabled back legs, three-year-old Cockapoo Noah spends his days traveling to schools in a custom-made wheelchair and Muffin’s Halo to teach children valuable lessons about bullying, about not judging people or animals by their looks or abilities, and about the difference between sympathy and empathy.

Working with a specialized curriculum developed by his pet parent, teacher Lisa Edge, Noah embodies the message that even though people look different, we all have similar needs and are no less important because of our differences or disabilities. Nearly every day, Lisa receives thankful messages from children who’ve been bullied and find comfort in Noah. When not in the classroom, Noah can be found at nursing homes, freely giving his love to seniors, or even skiing on the slopes of Wisconsin with custom-made skis to fit his wheelchair.

For overcoming his own obstacles to teach children valuable lessons about tolerance and acceptance, Noah is the 2018 ASPCA Dog of the Year. A huge congratulations to Noah and a thank-you for spreading such an important message year-round!