Red Cross: Dog tried to pull baby out of burning home
By Jason Overholt (.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address))
Story Created: Jul 8, 2010 at 10:24 AM EDT
Story Updated: Jul 8, 2010 at 6:07 PM EDT
BRISTOL — The Elkhart County Red Cross is calling a Bristol pit bull a hero after he alerted his family to a fire, and even tried to pull a baby away from danger.
The fire started early Thursday morning in a hallway and quickly spread throughout the home, according to the Red Cross.
“It sounds like the real hero here is the family pit bull,” said Frank Connolly, assistant executive director of the Elkhart County Red Cross. “Apparently ‘Thor’ woke the family up and even tried to pull the baby and bassinet out of the house. Lately we have learned how important pets can be to a family, and this is as stark an example as I’ve ever seen.”
“He’s the hero today. He’s the man,” said Kemper Hunter, Thor’s owner. “We turned around to look for the bassinet that was at the head of the bed, and it’s at the door. All we got to do is open the door and go out. [Thor’s] like ‘Let’s roll, dad! It’s time to go, I got you.’”
No one in the family was injured, but their home was heavily damaged. The Red Cross is providing short-term housing as well as food, blankets, clothing and a crib for the baby.
Donations to the family may be directed through the Elkhart County Red Cross. Call (574) 293-6519.
