Guide dog jumps in front of bus to save owner from serious injury

A guide dog threw himself in front of a school bus to protect his blind owner and remained at her side as paramedics treated them, authorities have said. Figo and his owner, Audrey Stone, were crossing the street in Brewster, New York, when the golden retriever saw the bus coming towards them. He then threw himself in front of the vehicle before refusing to leave Ms Stone’s side despite his own injuries. John Del Gardo, Brewster Police Chief, said: “The dog took a lot of the blow. And he did not want to leave her side.”

He stood right with her. He was there to save her. You really can’t touch an injured dog guarding someone. Touch them - they’re aggressive. Not this dog.

John Del Gardo, Brewster Police Chief

Ms Stone, 62, suffered a broken ankle, elbow and ribs, as well as a head wound. Figo had surgery for an injury to his leg, which remains in a splint. He will remain at a veterinary hospital in Danbury, Connecticut, until Ms Stone leaves hospital. Ms Stone told The Journal News: “He needs the Purple Heart from the president. He protects me, loves me, and vice versa. We just have a strong connection.”

Even though he was hurt so badly, he was only on three legs at that time, he was still trying to get to the blind woman as much as he could.

Paul Schwartz, eyewitness

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