George (dog) facts for kids
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| Species | Canis lupus familiaris |
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| Breed | Jack Russell Terrier |
| Sex | Male |
| Died | 29 April 2007 Manaia, Taranaki, NZ |
| Owner | Alan Gay |
| Residence | Manaia, Taranaki, NZ |
| Height | 30 cm (1 ft 0 in) |
| Awards |
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George was a brave dog from Taranaki, New Zealand. He became famous for saving children from a dangerous dog attack. George sadly died on April 29, 2007, but his heroism was recognized around the world. He received special awards from animal charities in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
About George the Hero Dog
George was a small Jack Russell Terrier, about 30 centimeters tall. He lived in a town called Manaia, Taranaki, in New Zealand. His owner was Mr. Alan Gay. George had a heart condition, but that didn't stop him from being incredibly brave.
George used to live with Mr. Gay's neighbors. But George loved spending time at Mr. Gay's house. So, when the neighbors moved away, they let George stay with Mr. Gay.
George's Brave Act
On April 29, 2007, a very scary event happened in Manaia. Some children were walking home when two large, powerful dogs attacked them. George, who was about nine years old at the time, bravely stepped in to protect the kids.
He fought off the attacking dogs, but he got very badly hurt during the fight. Mr. Gay's veterinarian (animal doctor) said that George's injuries were too severe. Sadly, the kindest thing to do was to put George to sleep to stop his pain. Mr. Gay was very sad but agreed. The two attacking dogs were also put to sleep. Their owner had to answer for owning dangerous dogs.
Later reports about the event varied slightly. Some said George was 14 years old and protected three children from one attacking dog. Others said he was 14 and faced two attacking dogs to save five children aged 3 to 12. No matter the exact details, everyone agreed George was a true hero.
Awards and Tributes to George
After his brave act, George was praised and remembered for his courage and sacrifice.
Medals for Bravery
- The Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RNZSPCA) gave George a special medal for bravery. This was the first time in 17 years that a dog received this medal. It was also the first time a non-police dog ever got it. Mr. Gay received George's medal at the children's school.
- In 2009, the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) in the UK awarded George the PDSA Gold Medal. This award is like the "animal equivalent of the George Cross", which is a very high award for bravery. The Governor-General of New Zealand, Anand Satyanand, placed this medal around the neck of George's statue.
A Statue to Remember
A bronze statue of George was made and unveiled in Manaia in 2007. It was created by an artist named Fridtjof Hanson from New Plymouth. This statue helps everyone remember George's amazing bravery.
A Purple Heart Offer
A veteran from the United States Marine Corps named Jerrell Hudman was very impressed by George's actions. He had served in the Vietnam War and had received three Purple Hearts, which are medals given to soldiers wounded in battle. Mr. Hudman was so moved by George's bravery that he offered to send one of his own Purple Hearts to Mr. Gay.
