Guide dog saves the day and jumps in front of bus to protect blind owner
A New York guide dog, named Figo, is being hailed as a hero after he jumped in front of a bus to protect his blind owner.
Witnesses say the dog and owner were crossing a roadway when an oncoming school bus failed to notice them in time. The courageous golden retriever leapt in front of the vehicle, attempting to shield his owner Audrey Stone.
“I don't know if the bus driver thought she was going to move faster, but it looks like the dog tried to take most of the hit for her,” witness Paul Schwartz told the Journal News.
Audrey was injured in the collision – she has a broken ankle and elbow as well as three fractured ribs, but did not sustain any life-threatening injuries. Figo was injured too, suffering a bone-deep gash in one of his front limbs. But he faithfully stayed by Audrey’s side even after paramedics arrived.
“There were 15 EMTs and people all around her and the dog didn't want to leave her side,” Schwartz told the newspaper. “He was flopping over to her and she didn't want him to get away from her, either.”
While Audrey is undergoing treatment for her injuries, Figo’s caregivers at Middlebranch Veterinary are keeping him safe and sound until the pair can be reunited.
“Figo is resting comfortably and recovering nicely from his wounds,” they said.
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