Utah K-9 officer, injured in line of duty, receives Purple Heart

ST. GEORGE, Utah (KABC) -- A dog as brave as she is adorable is getting some special recognition. Tess, a K-9 officer, ran into the line of fire and is now being honored with a Purple Heart.

Just two months ago, Tess was injured in a shootout in Saint George, Utah.

"It's a great award for her. But it warms my heart to know that the community out there just loves the work that we do and loves the dogs enough to reach out to say thank you," Deputy Mike Graf with the Washington County Sheriff's Office told KUTV.

Following the shooting, Tess was treated and had to undergo weeks of rehab. Tess's handler says the K-9 is still working her way back into regular duty.

The organization Vietnam Veterans of America was behind the special honor. The group says it will continue to honor other dogs -- just like Tess -- who fight beside brave men and women.