While Manic was the 2024 recipient of the new award, fellow retired combat assault dog Aslan also received the Australian Animal Distinguished Service Award today, as the 2025 recipient.

Aslan is a highly-trained military dog who would die for his country, but he's scared of the ocean and has nightmares every single night.

FILE-An animal rights activist holds a dog and a sign reading "his life is in your hands" during a demonstration to protect ...