Fargo Police Department K9 Officer Honored with Award

Uno's recognition comes with induction into the Animal Hall of Fame, organized by the North Dakota Veterinary Medical Association.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – After a long career of dedicated work – a Fargo Police Department officer has been honored with a special award.

Back in August, K9 Uno received the Working Award at this year’s Pet of the Year ceremony in Medora.

The award comes with induction into the Animal Hall of Fame, which is run by the North Dakota Veterinary Medical Association.

The Working Award is given to animals specially trained to assist in law enforcement, military or medical service.

Uno’s handler, Sgt. Brad Cernik, says that Uno has been making an impact since his very first days on the job.

“Another officer wanted the car sniffed – a narcotics sniff – I brought Uno out, and Uno alerted on the car,” Cernik recalled.

“I was out of school for a week at that point. We searched it and found an item that was illegal, so I was just amazed that it actually worked. I’d seen it in training up to that point, but that really sticks out to me.”

Uno has been patrolling the streets of Fargo for about seven and a half years now.

He is expected to retire in roughly the spring of 2026 and then will go on to enjoy his retirement with Sgt. Cernik’s family.