41-Year-Old Boo the Cockatoo Makes History by Being Named Pet Partners Pet of the Year
In a remarkable turn of events, Boo, a 41-year-old cockatoo, has made history by being awarded the prestigious title of Pet Partners Pet of the Year for 2026. This honor is particularly significant as Boo is the very first bird to receive this accolade, previously reserved for dogs and cats. Boo's journey is nothing short of extraordinary; indeed, it is a narrative of survival, healing, and purpose.
Boo's early life was marred by adversity. Subjected to an abusive environment for half of his life, he was rescued after a police raid and spent over a decade navigating life in complete darkness due to blindness. As fate would have it, Amy Hurst, a resident of Smithfield, Virginia, was concurrently battling her own challenges. While undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, Amy discovered that her birds had a remarkable ability to provide her with mental, physical, and occupational therapy, helping her through the painful treatment process.
Motivated by this transformative experience, Amy returned to school during her treatment. She built on her Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University and earned specialized certifications in animal-assisted interventions from the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals and as an Animal-Assisted Therapist through Husson University.
The turning point in their lives arrived when Amy and Boo crossed paths. After realizing that she could give Boo a brand-new chance, she took him to NC State Exotics, where a groundbreaking surgery restored his vision after 10 long years. At the age of 40, the blind cockatoo saw for the first time, marking a significant milestone in his life.
With his newfound sight, Boo transitioned into a registered therapy bird. He now provides comfort, connection, and emotional support to neurodivergent children and senior citizens, successfully challenging traditional perceptions of therapy animals. His presence illuminates the vital role birds can fulfill in human healing and wellness.
Amy was inspired by Boo's rehabilitation and passion for helping others, leading her to establish the Prism Bird Program. This initiative aims to place companion birds—like Boo—into the homes of individuals with unique needs. In contrast to traditional therapy models, this program focuses on building lasting relationships and providing everyday companionship and support.
Their story has garnered significant media attention and has reached an international audience, featured in renowned outlets such as NBC, Yahoo, and USA Today. With the recognition Boo received this year, a new chapter has unfolded, broadening the definition of animal-assisted therapy and paving the way for innovative possibilities across the globe.
As Amy Hurst poignantly expressed, “Even after years in darkness, Boo learned to see again. Now he helps others find light in their own lives.” Boo’s extraordinary transformation—from a life of abuse and blindness to one filled with healing and purpose—serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late for a second chance.
Pet Partners is a leading nonprofit organization committed to enhancing human health and well-being through animal-assisted interventions. Established in 1977, the organization is known for its rigorous education and assessment standards, supporting therapy teams across various settings, including hospitals and schools. Notably, Pet Partners welcomes multiple species, including birds, into their therapeutic framework.
Amy Hurst is an accomplished Animal-Assisted Therapy professional and the founder of the Prism Bird Program at Birds in the Dog House, LLC. Along with Boo, who is also a registered therapy bird, Amy focuses on assisting neurodivergent children and senior citizens, fostering connections through the profound bond between humans and animals. To follow their journey, visit www.birdsinthedoghouse.com, and connect with them on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Boo's early life was marred by adversity. Subjected to an abusive environment for half of his life, he was rescued after a police raid and spent over a decade navigating life in complete darkness due to blindness. As fate would have it, Amy Hurst, a resident of Smithfield, Virginia, was concurrently battling her own challenges. While undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, Amy discovered that her birds had a remarkable ability to provide her with mental, physical, and occupational therapy, helping her through the painful treatment process.
Motivated by this transformative experience, Amy returned to school during her treatment. She built on her Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University and earned specialized certifications in animal-assisted interventions from the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals and as an Animal-Assisted Therapist through Husson University.
The turning point in their lives arrived when Amy and Boo crossed paths. After realizing that she could give Boo a brand-new chance, she took him to NC State Exotics, where a groundbreaking surgery restored his vision after 10 long years. At the age of 40, the blind cockatoo saw for the first time, marking a significant milestone in his life.
With his newfound sight, Boo transitioned into a registered therapy bird. He now provides comfort, connection, and emotional support to neurodivergent children and senior citizens, successfully challenging traditional perceptions of therapy animals. His presence illuminates the vital role birds can fulfill in human healing and wellness.
Amy was inspired by Boo's rehabilitation and passion for helping others, leading her to establish the Prism Bird Program. This initiative aims to place companion birds—like Boo—into the homes of individuals with unique needs. In contrast to traditional therapy models, this program focuses on building lasting relationships and providing everyday companionship and support.
Their story has garnered significant media attention and has reached an international audience, featured in renowned outlets such as NBC, Yahoo, and USA Today. With the recognition Boo received this year, a new chapter has unfolded, broadening the definition of animal-assisted therapy and paving the way for innovative possibilities across the globe.
As Amy Hurst poignantly expressed, “Even after years in darkness, Boo learned to see again. Now he helps others find light in their own lives.” Boo’s extraordinary transformation—from a life of abuse and blindness to one filled with healing and purpose—serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late for a second chance.
About Pet Partners
Pet Partners is a leading nonprofit organization committed to enhancing human health and well-being through animal-assisted interventions. Established in 1977, the organization is known for its rigorous education and assessment standards, supporting therapy teams across various settings, including hospitals and schools. Notably, Pet Partners welcomes multiple species, including birds, into their therapeutic framework.
About Amy Hurst and Boo
Amy Hurst is an accomplished Animal-Assisted Therapy professional and the founder of the Prism Bird Program at Birds in the Dog House, LLC. Along with Boo, who is also a registered therapy bird, Amy focuses on assisting neurodivergent children and senior citizens, fostering connections through the profound bond between humans and animals. To follow their journey, visit www.birdsinthedoghouse.com, and connect with them on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Topics People & Culture）
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