COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- The City of Colorado Springs is going to the dogs, in a good way.

Mayor Steve Bach awarded a 'Spirit of the Springs Award' to a big, white and gray, Old English Sheepdog Tuesday morning.

The pup recently represented the city in a renowned dog competition in New York, with the support of his owners, who are also deserving of recognition.

"This is the first time we have presented an award to a dog," Mayor Bach said.

Swagger, who is only 20-months-old, recently performed in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden.

"To Swagger for Reserve Best-in-Show and crowd favorite at the Westminster Kennel Club Show," Bach said.

It is no surprise Swagger is a crowd favorite. With his long, snow white fur and kind little eyes, he is everyone's best friend.

But Swagger was not the only star of the show Tuesday, aa the Mayor also recognized his family who own the Sunrise Woodmen Kennels, and took in pets free of charge during the Waldo Canyon Fire.

"We are very proud to be called a family business here in Colorado Springs, we are very proud to be a part of Colorado Springs," Doug Johnson, Owner of Sunrise Woodmen Kennels, said.

"We have here this morning another great example of citizen leadership and compassion, and love for fellow citizens," Bach said.

By Tuesday night, the evening the fire moved into the city, Sunrise was caring for around 300 displaced dogs and more than 50 displaced cats.

"I have to thank my family and also the friends here in the community, a lot of people brought donations, money and also food to make that possible," Johnson said.

"I thank you gentlemen, not only for this wonderful dog you have, but your leadership in this community," Bach said.

One more note on Swagger, he is also the youngest ever best-in-group winner for the herding category.