The heroic dog that helped rescue a missing toddler from the Arizona wilderness is receiving gifts from people across the globe as a token of gratitude for his bravery.
The remarkable reunion between two-year-old Boden Allen and his loyal rescuer, Buford, took place on Monday afternoon, marking the first time they had been together since the dramatic rescue the week prior.
Boden’s father, Cody Allen, shared his relief and gratitude: “It’s a story of faith on my side,” he said, reflecting on the harrowing days following his son’s disappearance.
On the afternoon of April 14, Boden wandered away from his home in Seligman, Arizona, around 4 p.m. By nightfall, the toddler was nowhere to be found, prompting a massive search effort. The rugged terrain near I-40, with its rocks and trees, made the search particularly challenging.
“Boden was on a journey we never thought was possible,” Allen recalled. “He walked seven miles through rough terrain, avoiding wild animals and potentially dangerous situations.”
Yavapai County Search and Rescue, aided by searchers on foot, 4x4s, and aircraft, scoured the wilderness for 16 grueling hours.
“He’s a very lucky young man,” said John Harris, manager of the Yavapai County Search and Rescue Team.
But Boden wasn’t entirely alone in the wilderness. Buford, an Anatolian Pyrenees, was by his side, offering protection and warmth throughout the ordeal.
“I can see how he kept Boden warm all night,” Allen said, expressing his deep gratitude for the dog’s instinctual care.
Buford, whose owner, Scotty Dunton, verified the dog’s tracks shortly after the rescue, had guided Boden to the Dunton Ranch. Dunton explained how Buford led the toddler for at least a mile, despite the challenging terrain. “It was crazy, but Buford stayed with him for a good stretch of the journey,” Dunton said.
In the days following the rescue, the Dunton family has been flooded with gifts for Buford, including chew toys, treats, and various other offerings. “People from all over the world have sent gifts,” Dunton said. “It’s been overwhelming, in the best way.”
Buford’s heroism hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Yavapai County Search and Rescue Team, who have welcomed him as an honorary member. To honor him, they even provided Buford with a vest—an emblem of his incredible contribution to the rescue.
“It’s very rewarding for us when a search is successful, and we’re just glad to see people found safe,” said Harris. “The focus isn’t on who found them—it’s about bringing them home.”
For the Allen family, life is returning to normal. Boden is back to his active, explorative self. But the family will always carry the memory of the ranch dog who saved their son.
“I just look at it as a miracle, and I’ll never forget it,” Cody Allen said, holding his son close.
The Yavapai County Search and Rescue Team relies on volunteers and donations to fund their operations. For those interested in supporting future rescues, visit the team’s website for more information.