Drug detection dog receives hero award ahead of retirement

The win comes after Sam's seven-year career with Revenue's Customs Service.

Nine-year-old Cocker Spaniel Sam, was announced as the overall winner of The Golden Paw Hero Dog Awards 2026, sponsored by Agria, at a special ceremony last weekend.

The event highlighted the country's most inspiring and dedicated dogs in areas including law enforcement, search and rescue, therapy work, companionship and bravery.

The win comes after Sam's seven-year career with Revenue's Customs Service.

Throughout his career, Sam has played a crucial role in over 1,000 drug detections, as well as seizures with a street value surpassing €10 million.

Sam is currently based at Dublin Mail Centre and Parcel Hub where he examines international postal consignments in just 30 minutes.

This job may otherwise require several Customs Officer's hours to accomplish.

Now, as Sam nears retirement, judges Barbara Scully, Pat O'Boyle, Fiona Charles and Damien Hanley praised his work which made him a truly worthy recipient of the 2026 title.

Commenting on the win, judge Fiona Charles said: "Today we celebrate heart, courage, loyalty and the extraordinary dogs who show us what those words truly mean.

"At Agria Ireland, we believe pets aren't possessions, they're family, and every hero honoured here reminds us just how powerfully dogs can change lives."

Additionally, Oliver the Yorkshire Terrier, also from Dublin, was recognised at the event, taking home the Life-Changing Dog Award.

Oliver provides comfort and camaraderie to patients at Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services Harold's Cross every week, impacting numerous lives for the better.