Pooch Dials 911 When Owner Has Seizure

Owner Says He Trained Dog To Call For Help

 

PHOENIX -- Police in Scottsdale, Ariz., said a German shepherd saved his owner's life by dialing 911 when he began to have a seizure.

Joe Stalnaker said he adopted the dog, Buddy, when he was 8 weeks old and trained him to get the phone if he began to have seizure symptoms.

Stalnaker said he also trained the dog to press programmed buttons until a 911 operator is on the line.

Buddy, who is now 18 months old, can be heard whimpering on a recording of the 911 call at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday. Emergency responders arrived two minutes later.

Stalnaker was hospitalized for two days following the seizure but has recovered. He said Buddy is his best friend.

Stalnaker said his seizures are the result of injuries he received during military service.