Bolt the Tampa Bay Lightning Dog

Bolt, a yellow Labrador Retriever, has become a local celebrity in the Tampa Bay area since he was dismissed from a guide dog training program after discovering his eye condition. Bolt can’t be a guide dog, but he sure is capturing the hearts of Tampa Lightning fans!

Bolt’s been a Tampa Bay Lightning game attendee since 2019 and has developed his celebrity through his unfortunate story and adorable come around. While in training to become a guard dog, Bolt was taken in by Lightning employee until he finished his certification. Bolt started becoming a recognizable figure at the games due to his energy and sociability. He was over halfway through training when the program detected early signs of cataracts, making him unfit to continue training to be a guide dog. Unfortunately, Bolt’s vision might deteriorate quicker than what is needed from a guide dog, so he was taken out of his program.

But don’t worry, Bolt is still ensuring he lives his best life after the sad news! Bolt was adopted by the Lightning employee after she fell in love with him. And ever since, his presence has been a staple for Tampa Bay fans as they adore the furball as much as everyone else in Bolt’s life. His bark is even a featured sound after the National Anthem is played and throughout home games! Bolt makes his appearances to suites and seats as fans get a chance to meet the famous pooch and pet away their superstitions. Bolt is the heart of the Tampa Bay Lightning as he joins the hype team on game days, plays with employees and fans, and just generally brings warmth to the ice.

Bolt was even made a brand ambassador to the training program he was removed from, Southeastern Guide Dogs! Bolt is able to bring awareness to the organization’s services by wearing their vests to Lightning games and featuring them on his social media pages. Follow Tampa Bay’s best boy to stay up to date with his latest Lightning activities on Twitter and Instagram!