Vegas Golden Knights Put Dogs And Service Heroes Front And Center On VGK-9 Night

The Vegas Golden Knights transformed their February 4, 2026 home game into something far bigger than a regular-season matchup.

Presented by Optum, VGK-9 Knight unfolded as the Golden Knights faced the Vancouver Canucks, blending hockey, charity, and canine companionship inside T-Mobile Arena.

For fans in attendance, it was a reminder that the sport’s biggest stages can also be used to honor the quiet, life-changing work of service dogs.

When A Regular Game Became Something Much More

From the moment fans walked through the doors, VGK-9 Knight set a different tone.

Dog-themed activations filled the arena, with in-game moments designed to celebrate working dogs and the people whose lives they support.

One of the night’s most talked-about figures wasn’t wearing skates at all.

Maverick, the Golden Knights’ first “puppy with a purpose,” made special appearances throughout the evening, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

His presence offered a rare, up-close look at the kind of dogs whose training and placement are supported through events like this.

Jerseys That Did More Than Look Good

One of the most meaningful parts of the night came in the form of the jerseys worn on the ice. Players suited up in specialty VGK-9 Knight jerseys, created specifically for the event.

After the game, those jerseys were signed and released into an online auction that ran throughout the evening.

Fans watching from home could bid in real time, while those inside the arena were able to view the jerseys up close at concourse sections 11 and 12 before placing their bids online.

A portion of the proceeds was directed to America’s VetDogs, turning fan enthusiasm into direct support for a life-changing cause.

A Special Club For The Team’s Dog-Loving Fans

VGK-9 Knight also worked as a gateway into a growing community of dog-focused Golden Knights supporters.

Fans were invited to sign up for the VGK-9 Club at sections 11 and 12, receiving an exclusive VGK-9 dog tag as part of their membership.

The sign-ups gave dog owners a way to stay connected beyond a single game night, keeping them looped in on future promotions, events, and canine-related initiatives tied to the team.

The Merch That Made The Night Memorable

No Vegas theme night is complete without exclusive merchandise, and VGK-9 Knight delivered.

In the days leading up to the game, VGK-9 items such as t-shirts and novelty gear were available at The Arsenal at City National Arena.

On February 4, The Armory inside T-Mobile Arena featured VGK-9 sweatshirts, hats, pucks, and Maverick plushies.

The plush toys proved especially popular, giving fans a keepsake that tied directly back to the night’s message and mission.

The Charity At The Heart Of VGK-9 Knight

At the center of the evening was America’s VetDogs, the nonprofit benefiting from the jersey auction.

The organization has spent more than 20 years training and placing guide and service dogs with veterans from all eras.

Since 2015, its work has expanded to include first responders such as police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel.

Each assistance dog costs more than $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place, yet the dogs are provided to recipients completely free of charge.

Accredited by both the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International, America’s VetDogs is widely recognized for its high standards and long-term impact.

More Than Hockey, And Bigger Than One Game

Though VGK-9 Knight wrapped up when the final buzzer sounded on February 4, its impact reached far beyond one game.

The event blended fundraising, awareness, and community-building into a single night that felt personal, purposeful, and distinctly Vegas.

As the Golden Knights continue to host themed games and charitable partnerships, VGK-9 Knight stands out as a reminder of what’s possible when sports use their platform to shine a light on those who serve, both on two legs and four.