Indie Agency News Top 40: Pet of the Year 2025 Winners

My two three-year-old Australian Shepherds, Honey & Daisy, are the dynamic duo of moral management any pragmatic, yet creative human could dream up. While I'm buried in CPMs and wrestling schedules, they keep me honest with that soul-piercing Aussie side-eye. Nothing curbs corner-cutting like being judged by two fluffy supervisors. Their department runs on strict policies: transparent treat distribution (aka thoughtfully timed snacks), mandatory joy breaks (wellness cuddles and strategic kisses), and most importantly, timely walks that force me to literally touch grass. Nothing eases media-buying stress faster than being herded outside to remember life exists beyond dashboards and deadlines. When timelines crumble, they nudge me away from my desk with the gentle reminder that perspective (and fresh air) solves more than any late-night optimization. In short, they run a tight ship, maintain premium vibes, and keep my moral compass sharper than any KPI ever could.

He loves Omelet - every day he enters the office to 'Tobi!' and provides generous amounts of happy boy tail wags He's social and loves his human office mates and their dogs (he insists on saying 'hi!') He protects us from squirrels and the occasional stranger (because, terrier)

Bowie is fiercely loyal. He never leaves our CCO Jeff's side - meaning he's slowly becoming a true creative genius. Whether it's delivering critical design feedback, clickity clacking headlines on his little keyboard, or taking a nap in a giant pile of Curiosity swag, Bowie brings unprecedented value to every client meeting, stuffie scramble, and parking lot pit stop. Even after hours spent listening to Jeff's creative tangents through back-to-back-to-back-to-back creative meetings, Bowie finds the courage and stamina to brave our iconic pink staircase - his nemesis. But what makes Bowie Indie Agency News' pet of the year? He's never pooped in the office. Not even once.

Bailey has been part of our office culture since he was just four months old-and honestly, at this point, he might run the place. Every morning he greets each person like they're the guest of honor, and every evening he personally escorts everyone to the door, making sure the day ends on a high note. He attends every meeting (non-negotiable), proudly sits in his own chair, and ever the timekeeper he lets out a bark precisely when the meeting should wrap so someone will open the conference room door. Consider it his version of time management. Bailey respects everyone's lunch choices with remarkable discipline unless you happen to drop something. His true joys in life? Treats, belly rubs, and playing catch like it's his side hustle. In short: Bailey isn't just our office dog. He's our Chief Barketing Officer, Director of Good Vibes, and the heartbeat of the BAM family.

Equal parts mascot, motivator, and meatball-shaped morale boost, Barrel brings a gravitational pull of joy wherever he waddles. He's the first one in the door (usually for snacks) and the last one to leave (he naps very, very hard). His loyalty is unmatched, his wrinkles are numerous, and his impact on Murder Hornet's creative energy is undeniable.

Riley is basically a walking ball of sunshine, one of the sweetest pups you'll ever meet. She's obsessed with her Squishmallows and lambys, and honestly couldn't hurt a fly (trust me, I've tested this theory). As a certified service dog, she brings instant calm to any room, powered by her world-class snuggles and endless love for literally every human she meets.

She's 85 pounds of pure love wrapped in floof. She's the first to say hi in the office, the last to leave your side if you're eating lunch, and always ready to offer her belly for rubs or her smile for free. Whether she's cruising from the driver's seat, napping in the sand, or showing off her cow cosplay, Indie brings gentle joy and goofy sweetness to everyone she meets. She's got big paws, a bigger heart, and an unmatched ability to make any day better.

Silas is a showdog washout. We think he was too stubborn. He's the best boy because he is a great road trip dog, keeps us safe from leaves and the mailman, and has never met a crumb he's not obsessed with.

Chicken Noodle is the sweetest little pea. She has one floppy ear, the most telling tail and only barks when her toy gets stuck under the couch! We got Miss Noodle from a rescue sanctuary and she was the most chill of her littermates. She continues to be such a delightful addition to our family. So far, she's proven to be an incredible outfielder when we play baseball in the backyard, a good listener for ukulele concerts and the best homework helper.

Benny is the goodest boy in every sense. Back when Highdive was in our old office on Ohio St, he would proudly stomp down the halls like he owned the place, spreading joy and golden retriever glitter to everyone in sight. He hasn't starred in a commercial yet, but the hopes are high, and the charisma is undeniable.