Buford the dog honored after rescue of missing toddler in northern Arizona

Yahoo

23-04-2025

A heartwarming reunion took place on April 21 as 2-year-old Bodin Allen was reconnected with Buford, the ranch dog who played a crucial role in finding the toddler after he went missing in northern Arizona.
On April 14, Bodin wandered away from his home in Seligman, sparking an intensive search by dozens of law enforcement officers and search-and-rescue teams. But it was Buford, an Anatolian Pyrenees, who found Bodin 7 miles from his home, guiding him to safety after the boy had spent the night alone under a tree.
Buford's owner, Scottie Dunton, helped with the boy's safe return to his family after he saw Bodin and Buford wandering his property.
In a special ceremony, Buford was honored for his heroics, receiving an honorary search-and-rescue certificate and a rescue vest. Yavapai County deputies gave Bodin a challenge coin in recognition of his bravery during the ordeal.
The toddler had traveled through rugged, rural terrain in Yavapai County, remaining uninjured and avoiding wildlife spotted by authorities during the search.
Buford found the boy while patrolling his land and likely shepherded him to safety.
"Buford's vigilance and protective instincts, combined with Scottie Dunton's swift response, ensured Bodin's safe return to his family," Buford's certificate read. "Your actions exemplify the highest standards of community service and canine heroism."
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Buford the dog honored after rescue of missing toddler in northern Arizona