Former Shelter Dog 'Hudson' Inducted Into Animal Hall Of Fame

RANCHO SANTA FE, CA – Almost a decade after the once small, sick and timid dog arrived at Helen Woodward Animal Center, Hudson has been inducted into California Veterinary Medical Association's Animal Hall of Fame. The Greyhound blend was recently honored with the award for his service to the San Diego community.

In partnership with the Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Pet Encounter Therapy Program, which serves more than 50 different facilities every month, the pup has made more than 220 visits to 20 facilities in San Diego County, bringing unconditional companionship to people in need.

"Skilled nursing facilities, memory care units, the VA Hospital, a school for children that are homeless – Hudson is a star wherever he goes," said Robin Cohen, who has managed the Rancho Santa Fe-based shelter's Pet Encounter Therapy program for 23 years.

Hudson was almost 2 years old, wary toward strangers and other dogs, and had a heartworm infection when he was brought into Helen Woodward Animal Center’s adoption center in 2008, according to shelter staff. Still, Bob Schultze saw the pup’s potential and adopted him.

With time, training and a lot of love from his new family, Hudson passed his Canine Good Citizen test in February 2012 and became certified for the Pet Encounter Therapy Program in May 2013. Since then, he has spread joy and offered companionship to anyone in need of a four-legged friend.

"The CVMA Animal Hall of Fame award recognizes and shines a light on the beauty that can come from the human-animal bond," Cohen said. "You only need to watch Hudson at his work for a few moments to see why he deserves such a tremendous award. He has a way of healing and reaching out to our clients, and in my opinion, Hudson is truly the ambassador of unconditional love."

Photos courtesy of Helen Woodward Animal Center