St. John's Bridge over Willamette River, viewed from Cathedral City Park in Portland, Oregon State

Portland’s Heroic K9: Jacky the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Spirit of a City

A Portland K9 officer has made waves for her incredible service, earning recognition as one of the country’s most heroic dogs. Jacky, a 6-year-old German shorthaired pointer, is a semifinalist for the prestigious American Humane 2024 Hero Dog Award in the “Law Enforcement and First Responder” category. Alongside her human partner, Officer Charlie Berry, Jacky has become a beloved figure in Portland, protecting the community and fostering engagement wherever she goes.

Jacky and Officer Berry are assigned to TriMet’s Transit Police Division, where Jacky’s primary role is to help ensure the safety of TriMet’s riders and employees, as well as the broader Portland region. With her highly trained nose, Jacky is capable of detecting potential dangers, including explosives, helping to prevent threats before they can materialize. Her presence on buses and trains has not only enhanced security but also drawn the interest and admiration of the community.

“Jacky is a really interesting dog. She’s not your typical police dog, so I think it helps with a lot of community engagement with TriMet. When we’re on the trains, people are constantly coming up to us. What is she? What is she doing? I’ve never seen a police dog like this,” said Officer Berry.

Jacky’s impact extends far beyond the day-to-day safety of Portland’s transit system. Her skills have been called upon for major national events, including the Super Bowl, the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon, and Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game. These high-profile events require top-notch security measures, and Jacky’s keen ability to detect potential threats has played a key role in ensuring the safety of thousands of attendees.

While Jacky is always vigilant on duty, she also brings joy and comfort to those around her. Officer Berry notes that Jacky is not just a working dog; she’s a friendly presence who enjoys greeting TriMet operators and brightening their days. Her unique combination of skill and sociability has made her a favorite among both colleagues and the public.

Jacky’s journey to becoming a hero dog began at the Transportation Security Administration’s Canine Training Center in Texas, where she was part of the National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program. This rigorous program trains dogs to detect explosives across various modes of mass transportation, ensuring safety for travelers on buses, trains, and other public transit systems. Jacky excelled in her training, earning top honors in her class before beginning her career with the Port of Portland and TriMet.

“It was my life goal that I wanted to pour my heart and soul into K9 training. And, at the end of it, it was really rewarding because Jacky was actually awarded top dog in her class,” Officer Berry said proudly.

When she’s off-duty, Jacky takes full advantage of the scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether hiking the stunning trails around Portland or enjoying the fresh air of Oregon’s forests, Jacky’s high energy and love for the outdoors shine through.

Jacky’s nomination for the Hero Dog Award is not only a testament to her exceptional skills but also a reflection of Portland’s broader spirit of innovation, heroism, and community engagement. Portland has long been known as a hub for creativity and progressive ideas, producing noteworthy contributions in a variety of fields. The city is home to organizations and individuals who are making significant impacts, from sustainability efforts to the tech industry.

Portland is also known for its active role in fostering the arts and supporting local artists. The city’s vibrant murals, creative performances, and iconic landmarks, such as Powell’s Books and the Oregon Symphony, highlight Portland’s cultural contributions. Not only has Portland made a name for itself in the creative world, but it has also been home to many heroic efforts, from groundbreaking environmental policies to community-driven initiatives that support underrepresented groups. Portland is also home to great law firms and education opportunities, such as a Portland Motorcycle Accident Attorney and the University of Portland.

Jacky’s story adds another layer to the city’s rich tapestry of heroic and noteworthy accomplishments. Her service, alongside Officer Berry, reflects the dedication and resilience that define Portland’s community, proving that heroes come in all shapes, sizes—and in Jacky’s case, breeds. Her contribution to Portland’s safety, paired with her role as a symbol of community unity, highlights the city’s ongoing commitment to fostering both security and camaraderie.

As the semifinalist for the 2024 Hero Dog Award, Jacky represents not just the brave K9 officers who serve across the nation, but also the spirit of Portland itself—innovative, resilient, and always ready to step up for the greater good.

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