Recognizing the vital role that four-legged friends often play on family farms and ranches, Farm Bureau launched the Farm Dog of the Year seven years ago, a popular feature of the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Convention.

Gentle Carousel’s Sirius was the winner of the 2025 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year award in San Antonio, Texas with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare.

“Farm dogs often play a dual role as both working dogs and companions to farm and ranch families,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farming is very rewarding but stressful at times. Farm dogs can help ease the burden. It has been a pleasure partnering with Purina for the seventh annual Farm Dog of the Year contest, providing the public a glimpse of daily life on the farm.”

Purina donated prizes for the contest again this year. This included $5,000 in prize money, a trophy plate, a year’s supply of Pro-Plan dog food and other Purina products for Sirius.

A panel of judges with expertise in the pet care industry, veterinary medicine and communications selected the 2025 Farm Dog of the Year from amazing dogs from around the country.

Sirius is a “hero behind the heroes” at Gentle Carousel, keeping the therapy horses safe so they can bring comfort to adults and children in hospitals, hospice programs and assisted living programs, in addition to families, veterans and first responders who have experienced traumatic events.

With so much damage and tree debris over acres, getting back to normal will take awhile. Large trees were uprooted and down on pasture fences, across the driveway, round pen, everywhere. There was also roof and window damage. Our longtime farmer neighbors say it is the worst storm they have ever experienced. Roof tarps are still up everywhere.

Once our driveway was cleared so we could get out, the therapy horses were able to visit families staying in shelters and work with the Army National Guard. Please keep everyone experiencing long term challenges after the hurricanes in your kind thoughts and prayers.