A Horse Saved a Drowning Dog? The Truth Behind the Viral Tale
A touching photo and story swept across the internet:
A horse named “Agripin” was said to have spotted a blind puppy named Abby drowning in the Danube River. The story claimed the horse swam over, let the dog climb on its back, and heroically carried her to shore, saving her life.
The little dog’s owner was “astounded.”
Millions of people were moved.
…But none of it was true.
So what really happened?
The dog isn’t blind.
The horse didn’t rescue her.
In fact, the horse’s name is Brenda Lee, the dog is Lucy, and both belong to Brian Sean Reid, founder of Horses Know the Way Home.
The viral image was captured by equine photographer Jodie Sinclair, who documented their joyful swim at the beach. The two animals are best friends and live in the U.S., not anywhere near the Danube River.
Sinclair described Lucy as:
“The most independent, courageous, tireless tiny being I have ever encountered.”
Brenda Lee and Lucy’s friendship is real — it just didn’t begin with a river rescue. They frequently go on adventures together, and their genuine bond is what truly makes the story special.
Even the Horses Know the Way Home Facebook page poked fun at the story’s unexpected fame:
“How many lives would Brenda Lee and Lucy save this summer if they worked together?”