Dog Plunges into Water After Leash Snaps, Owner Jumps off Bridge To Save Her
For far longer than any living person can remember, dogs have been known as “man’s best friend.” The average pup shows a heartwarming propensity for hanging out with humans of any gender, age, or ethnicity.
DNA analysis published in Cell Research indicates that domesticated dogs have actually been making their homes with humans for more than 33,000 years. By any measure, that’s an incredible accumulation of love and loyalty.
So understandably, we humans often do our best to give back. We typically reciprocate with yummy treats, extended tummy rubs, long walks, fun squeak toys and Rover-friendly road trips.
But one particular Alabama man recently put his own life on the line for his best furry friend. His name is Al Trovinger, and his inspiring act of heroism is spreading in waves across social media.
It all started when Trovinger’s dog River jumped off a bridge. Without a second thought for his own personal safety, Trovinger jumped in after her.
This dedicated dog owner told ABC affiliate WKRN that he and his pet had been traveling in their car just before the incident occurred. More accurately, they were sitting bumper-to-bumper on the Bayway.
Traffic had come to an absolute standstill due to a nearby auto accident, and the pair’s vehicle had been immobile for roughly half an hour. Like any attentive owner, Trovinger thought River might need a quick potty break.
So Trovinger, who has owned River for approximately three years, stepped out of the car with his canine in tow. “As soon as we did,” he explained to WKRN, “we put her on a leash.”
But River, without warning, abruptly vaulted over the bridge railing. It’s hard to know for certain, but perhaps the pup became spooked or anxious due to all the surrounding activity.
To make matters even worse, the dog’s leash ripped in half when she jumped.
So River wound up plummeting into the untamed waters below. An alarmed Trovinger and multiple bystanders frantically started coaxing the canine toward land.
But after several minutes, the choppy current simply became too much for River. She began succumbing to exertion, and Trovinger instantly knew what he had to do.
He hauled himself over the rail and plunged toward his struggling pooch.
“For the first couple of minutes it was tough,” Trovinger said of the watery rescue. But he added that “once I kind of got the right stroke and she was getting a little calmer, it was fine.”
Worried witnesses assisted the effort by tossing down a life vest for added buoyancy. This helped the dog-tired duo paddle their way to a boat ramp near the shore.
State troopers and paramedics were already waiting on the scene to provide immediate support. In the end, man and dog emerged shaken but unscathed.
Trovinger was later asked whether he’d repeat this daring rescue attempt. Without missing a single beat, he said he absolutely would.
If you’re a doting dog owner, perhaps you’d do exactly the same. Many on social media feel it’s fitting payback for the unconditional love our pets provide every single day.
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