A Scottish Labrador named Sgiath has been awarded the title of Animal of the Year at the International Fund for Animal Welfare’s Animal Action Awards, held at BAFTA in London on 15 October. Sgiath is recognized for her unique ability to sniff out the invasive marine organism Didemnum vexillum, commonly referred to as “sea vomit.”
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Initially trained as a mountain rescue search dog, Sgiath now plays a crucial role in marine conservation alongside her handler, marine ecologist Dr. Texa Sim. She is believed to be the first dog in the world trained to detect this specific invasive species by scent, pioneering methods for researchers to monitor UK waters effectively.
The ceremony also honored six other winners who have made significant contributions to animal welfare and conservation. Wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan hosted the event and emphasized the importance of collaboration in conservation efforts, highlighting various achievements, from rescuing orphaned elephants to tackling wildlife crime.
Among the human recipients, Chief Inspector Kevin Lacks-Kelly of the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit received the Wildlife Crime Award for his extensive work in investigating animal fighting, wildlife trafficking, and online abuse related to animals.
Rachael Murton was awarded the Wildlife Rescue Award for her establishment of the Elephant Orphanage Project in Zambia, where she has rehabilitated orphaned elephants and facilitated their return to the wild as Country Director of Game Rangers International.
The honor of Wildlife Vet of the Year went to Dr. Mukami Ruoro-Oundo, who has been instrumental in developing treatment protocols for various endangered species and in promoting women's roles in wildlife veterinary medicine in Kenya.
Liomba-Junior Mathe, a Zimbabwean wildlife biologist, received the Conservation Coexistence Award for his innovative programs that help communities coexist with lions near Hwange National Park.
Flávia Miranda of Brazil was recognized as the Conservation Changemaker for her two decades of work protecting anteaters, armadillos, and sloths in Latin America.
Dr. Rima Jabado, a marine scientist based in Dubai, received the Marine Conservation Award for her significant efforts in shark and ray conservation.
Azzedine Downes, President and CEO of IFAW, expressed pride in showcasing the remarkable talents of conservation champions at the Animal Action Awards. The winners were nominated by the public and selected through a review process. Sgiath’s achievements underscore the vital role that dogs can play in marine conservation.