 |
 |
 |
 |
Two other dogs also were recognized for their heroic acts in 2003. Each received $200 and a certificate of merit.
Smokey Joe, a mix of Blue Heeler, Aussie and Border Collie, from Winnett, MT, rescued his owner, a cattle rancher named Susan Stone, from an enraged cow. A devoted companion and helper on the farm, Smokey Joe realized that Stone was in danger one morning when he heard a commotion in the barn. Smokey Joe, who was not permitted in the corral, sensed danger and raced into the gated area. There he found Stone lying on the ground after an angry heifer attacked and knocked her to the floor. She laid there, knowing that she was seriously injured, and watched as Smokey Joe attacked the cow. Luckily, Stone was able to slip out of the barn without further injury and called 911 for medical help. Thanks to Smokey Joe, Stone was able to get to the hospital and has since recovered from all of her injuries. To this day, Smokey Joe won’t let a cow get within 10-feet of his beloved owner.
Bear, a Pomeranian, saved his family from a fire. In December 2003, lightning had struck the Cherry residence in Rison, AR. The fire department arrived at the house to ensure that nothing had caught fire and declared that it was safe for the family of four to remain at the house. Randy Cherry, however, decided to stay awake to ensure the safety of his family, just in case anything caught on fire later in the night. At approximately 4:30 in the morning, Bear began barking loudly in the Cherry kitchen. Randy, who had dozed off, quickly jumped up and ran to Bear. There, the track lighting under that kitchen cabinet had caught fire. Randy quickly put the small fire out and avoided any major damages or injuries. If Bear had not been on high alert, the Cherry’s house would have went up in flames.
If you know a heroic dog, please nominate him or her to be the next Kibbles 'n Bits® Dog Hero of the Year.
