A service dog in rural Atchison County, Kansas, is being praised for his actions when a child was lost.
The incident happened Thursday when officials and rescue crews responded to search for a missing three-year-old, KAKE reported Saturday.
In a social media post, authorities with the Atchison County Emergency Services said the child was found safe and was back with family members, then detailed how a special companion helped in the rescue.
“The hero is Maverick the dog, the bestus boy ever. Maverick was located with the child and had apparently stayed by the child’s side through the entire event. Maverick got all the treats and scratches responders could provide,” the post read.
The agency also shared photos of crews at the scene on a gravel road and Maverick getting lots of love and affection after his brave actions:
A service dog can be any breed or size that is trained to perform a task related to their human companion’s disability, per the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
“Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, including physical, neurological, psychiatric, or medical conditions,” according to the Guide Dogs for the Blind website, which added that the dog’s behavior must be focused, dependable, and responsive.
Maverick appears to be a canine who embodies each of those qualities, judging by how he knew to stay with the child until they were rescued.
Social media users shared their relief that the child was found safe while also showering praise on Maverick.
“Thank God he was found safe. Angels cant be everywhere, so God created dogs,” one person commented, while another said, “God bless all who helped find this little boy Maverick for staying by his side and all the prayers! God is so good!!”
“Maverick deserves a big steak. Thank you to all of you. Such good news,” yet another person wrote.
