Do I have to live in Los Angeles to enter the contest?
You must be a U.S. resident and at least 18 years old to enter. However, you must be able to travel to Los Angeles for the photoshoot if you win. If you win the top spot as the official LAFD K9 mascot, this includes traveling to Los Angeles for the announcement the day following the contest. If that is not an option, the next highest fundraiser will be moved into that top spot, and you are still eligible to be in the calendar shoot at a later date.
Votes can come from anywhere in the world, however tax receipts are only applicable in the U.S.
Does my dog have to be a specific breed to enter the contest?Not at all. All domestic dogs are welcome. The contest celebrates the heroic spirit that all dogs possess, regardless of breed, size, or age.
My dog has passed away. Can I still enter them?We’re so sorry for your loss. At this time, entries are limited to dogs who can participate in the photoshoot and meet the requirements, so memorial entries are not eligible. Thank you for understanding and for wanting to honor your dog’s legacy.
What exactly happens if my dog wins?The winning dog becomes the official 2026 LAFD K9 mascot, is featured on the cover of the 2027 LAFD Howling Heroes Calendar, and will appear with their owner on KTLA News on Saturday, May 16 at 9:00 am. You'll also participate in a photoshoot with LAFD firefighters. We'll contact you within 24 hours to coordinate all logistics.
Throughout the year, Howling Heroes are also invited to participate in optional events, like the LAFD Foundation’s annual Valor Awards, holiday celebrations, and more.
I made a mistake with my entry/donation. Who do I contact?Email us at info@supportlafd.org, and we will assist you!
My images won't upload, what do I do?Contact us at info@supportlafd.org for assistance.
How are votes counted?Donations made in support of a dog are valued at one vote for every $1.00 donated, excluding promotional votes, which may be of higher value for a limited time.
How do I get the top spot?Fundraise! The Howling Heroes Calendar Contest is a fundraising activity to support essential equipment and programs for the LAFD.
Do I need to submit professional photos?Your entry photo should be high-quality (300 dpi or greater), but it doesn't need to be professionally taken. However, it must not show any signs of animal distress or discomfort. Winners will participate in a photoshoot after the contest.
How do I change my entry photo?Email us at info@supportlafd.org with your new image, along with a link to your contest entry, and we'll update it for you
If I win, what happens next? If you win, you will be contacted directly by the LAFD Foundation regarding the photoshoot logistics and promotional materials. You'll need to coordinate your schedule for the professional photoshoot with LAFD firefighters and the KTLA News appearance on Saturday, May 16, at 9:00 am.
What happens if I cannot participate in the required photoshoot?If you cannot participate in the required photoshoot and promotional activities, the next highest fundraiser will be offered the position.
What if my dog can't handle a photoshoot with firefighters?All dogs must be able to safely participate in a professional photoshoot environment with firefighters and a camera crew. If you have concerns about your dog's temperament around strangers, loud environments, or new situations, please consider this before entering.
Can I be disqualified?The LAFD Foundation reserves the right to disqualify an entry based on objectionable content or depiction of the dog or persons in a photo. Donations collected will be refunded if requested by the donor.
What will the LAFD Foundation do with my dog's entry once it has been uploaded?By agreeing to the waiver, you acknowledge and permit the LAFD Foundation to use the name, story, and photo of the dog entered in future various fundraising activities and materials, including promotional content for the LAFD Foundation.
Will my donors receive a tax receipt?Yes. Tax receipts will be emailed to donors.
Who can I contact for help?Email us with any questions, concerns, or photo updates at the contact information provided on the contest website.
For more information on the LAFD Foundation’s mission and funding priorities, please visit
supportLAFD.org or email us at
info@supportlafd.org.
Please see the RULES for full contest details.