Miami guide dog dubbed a "hero" with award

Driving the news: Eddie and his human Luis Rodriguez have inspired thousands through their advocacy for the blind and visually impaired community.

• The two are best known as "Miami Guy and His Guide Dog" on social media.
• Rodriguez, who navigated progressive vision loss caused by Retinitis Pigmentosa, was paired with Eddie through Dogs Inc., giving him the confidence and support to navigate the world independently.

The American Humane Hero Dog Awards is a nationwide competition that searches for and recognizes America's standout dogs in five categories: Therapy Dogs; Service and Guide Dogs; Military Dogs; Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs; and Shelter Dogs.

• Eddie won in the Service and Guide/Hearing Dog category.

What's next: Eddie and the four other finalists will be honored at a gala in Washington, D.C. next month.