Buffalo Sabres introduce 8-month-old Ralph as official 2026-2027 team dog
Marcus Allen is a lifelong sports enthusiast and seasoned reporter with over 8 years of experience covering local sports teams in Buffalo. A graduate of St. Bonaventure University, he has previously written for several regional publications and developed a strong following for his insightful game analyses and player profiles. Marcus believes that sports are a reflection of the community's character.
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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Meet the newest member of the Buffalo Sabres family, Ralph! Ralph is the team dog for the 2026-2027 season. He is an 8-month-old Samoyed who was named after the original Buffalo Bills owner, Ralph Wilson. Ralph will train to become a service dog for a local veteran through Pawsitive for Heroes, a program run by WNY Heroes. "Our partnership with the Buffalo Sabres grows stronger each year, and choosing the name Ralph adds special meaning to that relationship. During a conversation with Mary Wilson, the name felt like a natural way to honor Ralph Wilson, a World War II Veteran and the former owner of the Buffalo Bills. It brings together two beloved Buffalo teams while celebrating a legacy of service, generosity, and dedication to our community.” - Pawsitive for Heroes founder Chris Krieger The team dog program is in its sixth year, with 10-week-old Great Dane Audie as the team dog for the 2024-2025 hockey season. More information about WNY Heroes can be found online here.