Syd, a 7-year-old Golden Retriever, is highlighted in coverage from Akc for her role in assisting her owner.

Roberta “Bobbi” Hockenberry of Newell, West Virginia, who runs a dog‑training school and cares for 10 dogs, uses a wheelchair after her left leg was amputated above the knee in October 2024, and she relies on Syd to assist with daily living and to continue her business.

The American Kennel Club administers the AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence, recognizing dogs in categories that include Exemplary Companion. The recognition highlights Syd’s role in Hockenberry’s life beyond competition and titles; Hockenberry described the bond plainly: “I love all my dogs, and I think any one of my dogs would walk through fire if I asked them to,” she said. Reporting by Facebook offers additional detail on this case.

Syd is part of a household of 10 animals, all dogs, that form the backbone of Hockenberry’s training school in Newell. The Golden Retriever helps Hockenberry with tasks that allow her to keep teaching and competing; Hockenberry said of Syd, “[Syd] just does stuff because she thinks its the right thing to do. I dont know how else to explain it.”

Hockenberry’s route to this point included a foot surgery in June 2024 followed by infection and complications, and ultimately an amputation in October 2024. Those medical events changed daily routines at the training school and shifted Syd’s role from companion and competitor to an active support for Hockenberry’s mobility and work.

Syd’s ability to care for other dogs has also drawn attention. According to Hockenberry’s account of events, Syd raised a Belgian Malinois puppy named Mink after the pup was rejected by its mother, successfully integrating the puppy into her litter and household. As covered by Facebook, readers can explore more context around the event.

Linda Romanelli, identified as a close friend and business partner, reflected on Syd’s temperament and effect on Hockenberry’s work: “I consider her an empath,” Romanelli said. Her remark underscored how Syd’s presence has been valuable both at home and in the training school.

Hockenberry competes in obedience, field trials and hunt tests with her dogs and has kept those activities part of her schedule. Syd’s recognition by the AKC follows a record of involvement in both competitive and everyday life, and it acknowledges the non‑certified, companion role she has filled for Hockenberry.

The award citation and further details were published by the American Kennel Club. The accolade marks a public acknowledgment of Syd’s contributions to her owner, to the training business in Newell, and to the dogs in their care.

For Hockenberry, the combination of friends, colleagues and her dogs has been essential. “I wouldnt be able to do anything without either my dogs or my friends,” she said.

Source

Original reporting: view the original article.