A rescue dog has been hailed a hero after saving his sleeping family from a terrifying house fire.
‘Wilbur’, who was surrendered to Dogs Trust Ireland charity as a pup, was adopted by the family at the beginning of this year.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, who is described as a normally quiet dog, barked frantically on the night, alerting his family that something was wrong.
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The family then realised that their house was engulfed in flames and they were able to quickly and safely leave the burning property.
Wilbur’s adopter, who wants to remain anonymous, said: “It’s quite simple, Wilbur saved both me and my son’s life.
"If it wasn’t for the fact he barked until I woke to alert us something was wrong, I would never have known the house was on fire until it was too late.
“He is undoubtedly a hero in our eyes and forever our most loyal friend.”
Wilbur was surrendered to the charity in December 2021 after his original owners realised that he wasn’t the Spaniel Cross that they were promised - but a much larger Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.
The case of mistaken identity led to Wilbur’s adoption in January and his new forever family have never looked back.
Sandra Ruddell, Assistant Manager at Dogs Trust Ireland said: “Wilbur’s family gave him a second chance in life by adopting him, and in turn he saved their lives and their home.
“We are so grateful that everyone is okay, and that the family and Wilbur could get to safety,” she said.
“Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred for their bravery and to protect the family home, so it’s no surprise that Wilbur lived up to his heroic heritage,” Sandra continued.
“All our dogs are special, but Wilbur’s story really goes to show you how loyal our canine companions are. If you are looking to add a dog to your life, choose rescue and you never know, that dog might just come to your rescue one day too.”
Dogs Trust Ireland currently has over two-hundred dogs in their care, just like Wilbur, who are searching for new homes. If you are interested in adopting, please visit www.DogsTrust.ie to see some more heroic hounds.
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