Subway rescue: Man gets to keep 'Hero' dog

21 Dec Sky News

A blind man has spoken of his joy after he learned he would be allowed to keep the guide dog that came to his rescue when he fell onto train tracks.

Cecil Williams wept as he told of dog Orlando's heroics on the New York subway and the successful campaign it prompted to raise the money to let him keep the animal.The 61-year-old was due to get a new guide dog in January or February and his medical benefits would not cover the cost of caring for a retired dog. But donations poured in after news of his story spread, meaning Orlando will stay by Mr Williams' side during his retirement.

"Christmas and the spirit of giving it exists here and it's in New York," Mr Williams said. Witnesses said the black labrador jumped on to the subway tracks after his owner fainted and fell. He was seen nudging and licking Mr Williams, apparently trying to wake him and get him out of harm's way. Both escaped serious injury when the train passed over them