Photo credit: Michael Hnatov
Accession Number: C.2017.17.4
Dimensions: 10.375 in X 6.75 in X 9.25 in
Dimensions (Metric): 26.3525 cm X 17.145 cm X 23.495 cm
Credit Line: Gift of Christina and Samantha Caputo in memory of their father, Joseph Caputo
Description
Tan "Help a Hero" Hartz brand plush dog. The dog has an American-flag themed bandana around its neck. An attached tag has printed text that reads: "Help A Hero | From Ground Zero to the Grand Canyon, search & rescue dogs save lives! | Hartz will donate $1.00 for any DOGNY dog toy sold." The DOGNY logo is embroidered on the back leg of the plush toy.
Historical Notes
After 9/11, the American Kennel Club created a public art project called DOGNY, America’s Tribute to Search and Rescue Dogs. The goal of DOGNY was to raise money for search-and-rescue dog organizations like those that responded to the 9/11 attacks. The project featured more than 100 sculptures decorated by different artists and modeled on an original work by artist Robert Braun. Each sculpture depicted a life-sized German shepherd, one of the most common canine breeds used for search and rescue service. The finished works were on view for approximately three months in 2002 at locations throughout New York City, including many firehouses and police precincts. Following the display, Sotheby’s auctioned a number of the sculptures to benefit the American Kennel Club’s fundraising effort. Souvenirs like these plush toys were also sold to support the fund.