George, a courageous Jack Russell from New Zealand, is to be awarded a posthumous PDSA Gold Medal - the animals’ George Cross - for saving five children from the jaws of two Pit Bull terriers.
PDSA, the UK’s leading veterinary charity, is honouring this 14-year-old Kiwi canine hero for acting bravely while out walking with his neighbour’s children. Facing the two loose Pit Bull terriers, George stood his ground, protecting the five children aged between 12 and three, who then ran home to tell their mother how the dog had saved them.
George lost his life in the incident, which took place in the small North Island town of Manaia in 2007, but his life-saving actions prompted several New Zealanders to nominate their local hero for the PDSA Gold Medal – the highest honour for pet bravery and devotion.
PDSA Director General, Jan McLoughlin said the charity’s Council was deeply touched by the accounts of George’s bravery: “There’s no doubt that George was a small dog with a lion’s share of courage. Each account of his devotion to the five children that day tells of a dog that was not afraid to face great fear in order to protect his friends. The children will never forget George’s sacrifice and PDSA is proud to honour this exceptionally brave dog.”
The presentation of the PDSA Gold Medal to George’s owner, Alan Gay, will take place in Manaia, New Zealand, in February.
Thu Aug 02, 2018 3:35 pm by Lorz
Calendar
