A heartwarming new addition now greets guests at the top of the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium: a life-size bronze sculpture of Herald the Dog, the zoo’s first canine ambassador.

Installed proudly on a concrete bench overlooking the theater, the sculpture honors Herald’s incredible life and legacy. Created by Tacoma artist Ian Holman and Two Ravens Studio, the piece is a tribute to a dog who captured the hearts of thousands and brought a powerful sense of community to the zoo.

Herald passed away in 2024 at the age of 16, after 14 unforgettable years at the zoo as a companion and conservation ambassador. Known for his impressive stage presence, boundless energy, and lovable mischief, particularly his talent for sneaking into off-limits snack packages, Herald was also a cancer survivor and a champion squirrel-chaser. He raised over $110,000 for the zoo’s Dr. Holly Reed Wildlife Conservation Fund, earning him the title of conservation superhero.

To honor and celebrate Herald, The Zoo Society, the nonprofit that supports Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, raised funds for a life-size bronze sculpture that now sits at the entrance to the theater, welcoming every guest to the zoo and the show. The project was made possible through an outpouring of support, with donations from individuals and through Parks Tacoma’s Legacy Employee Giving Campaign in 2023.

Though Herald is no longer bounding across the stage, his spirit lives on in every Wild Wonders show. His statue will serve as a permanent reminder of his joy, playfulness, and the deep bonds he forged between animals, staff, and guests.