The Arizona Pet Project hosted its 23rd Annual HERO Awards on March 7, 2026 at the Arizona Biltmore, raising $370,000 to support programs that keep pets and their families together during times of crisis. The event brought together community leaders, advocates, and animal lovers to celebrate the powerful human-animal bond and honor extraordinary heroes. The evening featured keynote speaker Nathan Smith, CEO of Central Arizona Shelter Services, and was led by chairs Senator T.J. Shope and Melissa Dus, with Karl Obergh serving as Honorary Chair. Monique Lopez, CEO of UMOM New Day Centers, was recognized as the 2026 Human HERO for her leadership in advancing pet-inclusive sheltering. Animal honorees included Lola, who saved her owner’s life; Piper, a search-and-rescue bloodhound; Josie, a therapy donkey; and Rocky, a loyal companion who alerted his family during a medical emergency. U.S.VETS Phoenix was also honored for its commitment to serving veterans with pets.

Photography by Fernando Hernández