In a heartwarming story of survival and heroism, a 2-year-old boy, Bodin Allen, has been reunited with the dog who saved him after he wandered off into the remote Arizona wilderness.
On April 14, Bodin went missing from his family’s home in Seligman, Arizona. His mother, Sarah, reported that the toddler had gone outside to play, but when she checked on him, he was nowhere to be found. A search team of 40 people was immediately dispatched to look for him.
After 16 hours of searching, the boy was discovered on the property of rancher Scotty Dunton, about seven miles from home. What made the discovery even more incredible was the role of Dunton’s dog, Buford, an Anatolian Pyrenees, who had found the boy and likely led him to safety.
Dunton explained that Buford, who was guarding the property, had likely protected Bodin and directed him toward safety, as the child appeared “upset but in good shape” when found. The reunion between Bodin and Buford took place on April 21, and Bodin’s father, Corey, described it as a “miracle” that he would “never forget.”
Since the rescue, Buford has received numerous gifts from well-wishers, including toys and snacks. On the day of the reunion, he was made an honorary member of the Yavapai County Search and Rescue Team, receiving a special blue vest in recognition of his role in the rescue.
Corey Allen shared that his family plans to raise awareness about missing children, implementing safety measures such as a whistle for Bodin to carry, and plans for building community “lighthouses” to help keep children safe.
The story has touched many, not only for its miraculous ending but also for the heroic actions of Buford, the dog who became a lifesaver.