Hero Geo's canine courage to be rewarded
Photo credit: Alban Donohoe
A DOG that put its own life at risk to save its young owner is to receive a bravery award from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
Geo, a a German shepherd-collie cross, was out walking in Clacton-on-Sea with his owner Carly and her three children when an out-of-control lorry careered on to the pavement, heading straight for 10-year-old Charlie.
The seven-month-old dog took the full force of the collision as he leapt forward and pushed Charlie out of the path of the lorry, sustaining multiple injuries as a result.
Carly said: “Geo must have sensed it as he leapt up and pushed Charlie out of its path then took the full brunt of the collision himself. He was knocked into the road then hit by the lorry again as the driver left without stopping. We could have all been hit but I am absolutely sure Charlie wouldn’t be here if Geo hadn’t acted the way he did.”
Geo suffered a broken back, shattered legs and damaged lungs in the collision and vets believe his young age and health were vital in helping him pull through. After two weeks in an animal hospital and three major operations, Geo began to recover and, a year on, is a happy and healthy dog, albeit with a slight limp when its cold and incidents of breathlessness.
The family never considered giving up on Geo despite vet bills totalling £8,000.
"The costs were huge but there was never any question of us not going ahead with the treatment. Geo is a big part of the family, he’s a real hero who has always been protective of the children, but what he did for Charlie is truly amazing and we’re really proud of him."
IFAW UK director Robbie Marsland said: “When we heard the story of Geo’s bravery in protecting Charlie we knew he would be a worthy winner of IFAW’s Animal Bravery Award. It is a fantastic example of the special relationship between people and animals.”
Geo's award will be presented during IFAW's Animal Action Awards, hosted by Baroness Gale and present by TV wildlife guru Bill Oddie at the House of Lords on October 22. Charlie and family will accompany Geo to the ceremony.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
