An old dog who devoted himself to protecting a three-year-old girl who got lost at night in the Australian grasslands received a police commendation on April 21, after leading the rescue team to the child.
Rescue teams began a ground and air search after Aurora became lost in the bush near a farm in Queensland state on the evening of April 20.
Max, the Bennetts’ 17-year-old Blue Heeler, had been with Aurora all night, leading the family and rescuers to her rescue. He had previously watched over her for 15 hours in the wild.
Max’s loyalty makes many people admire – Photo: AFP
Aurora’s grandmother, Leisa Bennett, was the first to hear her. She saw Max first and then Max led her to Aurora. The dog has poor hearing and vision. Queensland Police quickly took in the four-legged hero and awarded him an honorary certificate.
After being rescued, Aurora was in good health, with only minor scratches. She was found about 2km from the farm. According to rescue team member Ian Phipps, the terrain around the farm is rugged and mountainous, making it difficult to move. Luckily, she had her loyal dog with her.