Boo’s Second Act: From Recovery to Helping Others

In many situations, support animals provide comfort and companionship that can make a meaningful difference for people facing difficult circumstances. They can help improve quality of life and provide emotional stability during challenging times. While the exact number of people who rely on animals for emotional support is unknown, it is clear that many animal guardians form strong bonds with their companions and depend on them for comfort and connection. Approximately 18% of pet owners rely on their animals to help them cope with emotional or life challenges in some way.

There are support organizations that maintain registries of support and therapy animals and the people they assist. One such group is Pet Partners. This nonprofit organization registers volunteer animal-handler teams that provide support to individuals facing mental and physical health issues. Located in Bellevue, WA, Pet Partners has helped thousands of people experience the comfort, connection, and companionship that can ease feelings of anxiety and sadness.

Boo’s Remarkable Journey From Rescue to Recognition

The story of Boo is one of interest. Boo was rescued from an abusive and neglectful environment, which contributed to the loss of sight of the bird. After about 10 years of blindness Boo was chosen to undergo groundbreaking surgery that restored his vision. Throughout those years, his owner, Amy Hurst, provided him with dedicated care and support.

As a registered Pet Partners support bird, Boo works with people on the autism spectrum as well as those with disabilities. He also participates in visits with youth groups, hand therapy sessions, and stroke recovery programs. Despite facing years of disability himself, Boo has gone on to help countless people, thriving through his resilience and the steadfast care and guidance Amy provided along the way.

Every year, Pet Partners select an animal that stands above the rest in the man ways that they support the people they attach with. This year, that distinction goes to a beautiful umbrella cockatoo named Boo. What makes this stand out even more is that Boo represents the first time a bird has won the Pet Partners Pet of the Year award. More exciting is that Boo was a part of the strongest fundraising that the Pet of the Year award surrounds. For 2026, Pet Partners raised $158,275 to help bring animals together with the people that need them.

I previously wrote about Boo’s eyesight-restoring surgery, “From Darkness to Daylight: Boo the Cockatoo Sees Again.” News that Boo is now actively helping others, in part because of his restored vision, is especially heartwarming. His award recognizes not only the positive impact this remarkable 41-year-old bird has on those around him, but also the dedication of his owner, Amy, whose tireless efforts continue to help both Boo and countless others thrive.