A dog in northern Arizona played a key role in the rescue of a toddler who had gone missing in the desert. The two-year-old boy spent an entire night alone in the harsh environment. Nevertheless, he was found safe and sound the following morning, thanks to the keen instincts of Buford, a ranch dog.
Ranch dog leads brave rescue story of a missing toddler in Arizona
Boden Allen was reported missing after he wandered away from his family’s property on Monday. He disappeared in the high desert of northern Arizona, an area known for its extreme conditions. As temperatures plummeted overnight, the toddler was exposed to the risks of predators. In fact, during the search, authorities noted that two mountain lions were spotted in the area, adding urgency to the rescue efforts.
Rescue teams from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office immediately began the search, but the situation appeared grim. Megan Fitzgerald, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, acknowledged the rarity of such cases ending well. “It is not every day that we get to sit here and talk about a happy ending where the child was safe and located,” she said, as per KPHO News.
Luckily, the situation took a positive turn the next morning when Buford, a ranch dog, made an incredible discovery. Owned by local rancher Scotty Dunton, Buford found the missing toddler seven miles away from his home. The dog had brought Boden to safety, guiding the boy to the gate of Dunton’s property after finding him in the horse pasture.
Dunton recounted the moment to reporters. He explained that his dog had led the child toward the property, seemingly following a path Boden might have taken. When asked how Boden had managed to walk so far, the toddler explained he had followed a power line to the ranch, and, after taking a rest under a tree, Buford found him.
Boden’s safe return was a relief to the authorities. However, they were still uncertain how the toddler took the remarkable journey. As for Buford, he returned to his usual duties, though not without a well-earned steak dinner.
