Nationwide Pet Insurance has announced the 2025 winner of its annual Hambone Award, which celebrates the “unexpected, the unusual, and downright outrageous events that lead to surprise veterinary visits.”
First prize went to Ziya the Belgian Malinois, who helped protect his human, Tim, from a loose bull. Ziya was struck in the jaw in the encounter, but made a full recovery following an emergency vet visit.
“Tim’s bond with Ziya enabled them to take turns caring for each other when a bull unexpectedly joined their morning walk,” says Dr. Emily M. Tincher, chief veterinary officer at Nationwide. “Thanks to the care provided by Ziya’s veterinary team and the protection provided by Nationwide pet insurance, this story of unexpected trauma has a happy ending!”
The runners-up include the lab-mix Duke and the Great Dane Foxtrot, who had to be rushed to the vet after swallowing a spatula head and a whole turkey leg, respectively.