The Heroic Story of George the Jack Russell Terrier

 

In the small town of Manaia, New Zealand, a brave 9-year-old Jack Russell Terrier named George became a true hero on April 29, 2007. 

George was playing with a group of 5 children aged 3-12 when they were suddenly attacked by two aggressive pit bulls. Despite being much smaller than the attacking dogs, George courageously jumped in to defend the children. 

"George was brave - he took them on, and he's not even a foot high," said witness Allan Gay. "He jumped in on them; he tried to keep them off. If it wasn't for George, those kids would have copped it." George fought valiantly, but was severely injured in the attack. He suffered bites to his head and back, and his wounds were so severe that he had to be euthanized.  However, his heroic actions likely saved the children from serious harm or even death."George tried to protect us by barking and rushing at them, but they started to bite him - one on the head and the other on the back," said 11-year-old Richard Rosewarne. "We ran off crying and some people saw what was happening and rescued George." 

In recognition of his incredible bravery, George was posthumously awarded a medal for bravery by the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals - the first such award given to a dog in 17 years.  A Vietnam War veteran in the US was so inspired by George's actions that he sent one of his own Purple Heart medals to George's owner. A bronze statue was also erected in Manaia to memorialize George and his courageous sacrifice. The statue's plaque was later updated to note that George had also been awarded the prestigious PDSA Gold Medal, "the animal equivalent of the George Cross", by the British animal charity. George's story stands as a powerful testament to the bravery and loyalty of dogs, and the special bond they can share with the humans they protect. His heroic actions that day will long be remembered as an inspiration to all.