6 Sweet Animal Stories We Loved In 2023 In Illinois

ACROSS ILLINOIS — Adorable animal stories abounded in 2023 in Illinois. We covered the saga of an abandoned dog named King, learned about a therapy dog who 'broke the internet' and we marveled at a K-9 who helped rescue kids and snag criminals.

There's almost no end to the amazing feats animals can pull off. Give these stories a read and let some four-legged friends surprise you with their acts of compassion and daring.

New Therapy Dog 'Breaking The Internet' In Buffalo Grove: Village

Grady may have been the second therapy dog to join the Buffalo Grove Police Department, but he quickly rose to number one in the hearts of residents. In fact, a village spokesperson said he "might be breaking the internet."

An Abandoned Dog Named King

Readers throughout Illinois followed the story of King, who was found tied to a Burger King dumpster with a simple note tied to his collar. The note read: "Hi, I'm King. I'm a good boy. Love to hug and kiss. Birthday July 22, 2018."

Monee police said King had been well-attended prior to being left outside the fast food restaurant. They shared his photo online, spurring residents to share it in hopes of finding his owners. Eventually, even Burger King got into the act of helping this sweet dog.

K9 Dax Has Nose For Search And Rescue

In 2023, Lake County K-9 Dax won our hearts with his nose for finding kids who are in distress and tracking down criminals. Dax even helped apprehend an armed criminal and locate a teenager who was under the influence.

'Fowl Play': Local Turkey Gets Police Escort Out Of Busy Parking Lot

Not long after Thanksgiving, one lucky turkey who had escaped the fate of their brethren had a run-in with the law in Frankfort.

Tinley Park Woman 'Never Tires' Of Giving Back With Service Dogs

Animals are where the heart is for one Tinley Park woman. See why Kim Laidlaw, who founded Healing Hearts Comfort Dogs, has a special place in ours.

K-9 Sworn Into Lewis University Police Department

Jet made history as the first K-9 to serve at Lewis University. The emotional support dog was sworn in with an official ceremony in June.