She’s the modern dog—visited 3 countries, camps, reads, loves snow and everyone, and even invented Petwrk, an app for pet owners.
Thank you for supporting Helsinki in this year's competition. Your participation allows us to aid PAWS in their mission to help cats, dogs, and wild animals thrive in happy, healthy homes or in their natural habitats.
What is America's Favorite Pet?
Learn MoreHer favorite “toy”: mom's cell phone:she’ll nose it, guard it, and (with my help) “text” our followers with goofy videos that brighten hard days. She loves being on camera: dancing, singing, and sharing mini pep-talks as Petwrk’s Chief Bark Officer. If I’m scrolling, she wants a turn—paw on the screen like, “my audience is waiting.” Her go-to treat is an ice-cream pup cup the most American ritual—tiny licks, tail helicopter, then she’s back on patrol for smiles. Sprinkles optional; joy required.
Her most unique quality is her business-card energy. Helsinki has her own “Chief Bark Officer” cards, and she hands them out with her presence—people stop us everywhere. A quick walk turns into a mini meet-and-greet: strangers ask her name, take photos, and insist on a card. It happens constantly—every 1–2 minutes outside. She was even featured in the Chicago Tribune, but her real headline is this: she’s an angel who changed my life and makes others feel seen. Everyone wants her—and she knows.
Helsinki should be America’s Favorite because she saved my life. After Peace Corps I married abroad, and when he divorced me, I kept the dog—and she kept me. She turned heartbreak into purpose: as Petwrk’s Chief Bark Officer she shows up daily, working, dancing, singing, and reminding people to choose joy. She also models handmade bandanas that fuel our Blue Sky girls’ entrepreneurship partnership. She’s the modern businesswoman—and the reason I’m joyful!
