CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Local pet‑food company Dr. Tim’s Pet Food is launching a new line of freeze‑dried dog treats that puts a real‑life hero on the packaging. The product, called the K‑9 Hero Series, showcases Hercules, a nine‑year‑old border collie who works as a wildlife‑management dog at West Virginia Yeager International Airport.
Hercules’ role at the airport
Since 2018, Hercules has been stationed on the airport’s runways, using his keen senses to locate and disperse birds and other wildlife that could endanger aircraft. CRW officials say that bird‑strike incidents have dropped more than 70 % since the canine began his patrols, a safety improvement that protects pilots, passengers, and the local economy that depends on reliable air service.
From runway to retail shelf
Dr. Tim’s Pet Food announced that the K‑9 Hero Series will feature Hercules on each bag, along with a short biography of his service. The company says the treats are made with high‑quality, freeze‑dried ingredients designed for active dogs. A portion of the proceeds will be earmarked for organizations that train and care for service dogs, extending Hercules’ impact beyond the airport.
Community response
The launch has already generated buzz on social media. Hercules maintains an Instagram account where fans can follow his daily patrols and see behind‑the‑scenes footage of his work. The brand also plans to release a line of plush toys modeled after the border collie and a children’s book that tells the story of a service dog protecting a community.
Why the story matters locally
Beyond the novelty of a canine mascot, the product highlights a successful partnership between a local business and a public‑service program. By turning a safety success story into a consumer product, Dr. Tim’s is reinforcing the value of wildlife‑management efforts that keep the airport running smoothly. The initiative also supports the broader network of service‑dog charities, aligning with the community’s emphasis on family safety and responsible stewardship of local resources.
Looking ahead
Airport officials expect Hercules to continue his patrols for years to come, and they hope the treat line will inspire other businesses to spotlight local heroes. Residents who purchase the K‑9 Hero Series can feel they are contributing to both safer skies and the ongoing care of service animals that serve the public good.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
