Dogs, when tasked to do something, are dedicated and focused animals. They would to the jobs given to them with gusto and determination. Because of their hard work and perseverance, dogs also deserve to be rewarded for their excellent work.
One service dog who was tasked to protect a 13-year-old boy who was a victim of a drive-by shooting incident in 2015 was awarded as the Service Dog of the Year by the American Humane Hero Dog Award in 2019.
In March 2015, Antonio Reese, nine years old boy of Lexington, Kentucky, became a victim of a drive-by shooting while he and his family were on their way to a family dinner. He was shot at the back of his head. He was in a coma for 18 days.
The incident caused seizures and memory loss on Antonio. He also has an artificial skull to cover half of Antonio’s brain. The fake covering is to protect Antonio’s brain should he falls during a seizure.
Now and then, Antonio experiences migraines, balance issues, spells, among others, as an effect of his brain injury.
The family has decided to get Antonio a service dog; however, they do not have enough funds to get one as Antonio needed another brain surgery. Tara Murillo, Antonio’s mom, has decided to organize a yard and bake sale to raise money for his first service dog.
Thankfully, the community they are living in is very supportive of their cause. Antonio’s family raised thousands of dollars, which is enough to get a service dog for him.
Alice is Antonio’s first-ever service dog. She is from Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs based in Florida. Antonio’s family was able to bring Alice home in October 2016.
Since then, Alice became a hero not only to Antonio but for the rest of his family.
Alice has never failed to alert the family if Antonio is going to have a seizure. She also assists the boy whenever he has balance issues. Alice is dedicated to helping Antonio to do his daily tasks.
Tara said that Alice has given the whole family a feeling of security, that Antonio is in good hands.
In 2019, Alice won the Service Hero of the Year given by the American Humane Hero Dog Award. The award-giving body is recognizing the efforts of dogs who are doing extraordinary things.
Watch this video to know more about Alice:
Congratulations, Alice, and continue to be of service to Antonio!
Video courtesy of American Humane via YouTube