Golden retriever in Japan awarded pet food after finding missing woman, 83

A three-year-old golden retriever in Japan has been hailed a hero after she unexpectedly found a missing woman, 83, in Mito city on Oct. 12, 2024 evening, as reported by NHK.

The elderly woman was reported missing by her family earlier in the day, only to be found by Omochi, the golden retriever.

The dog was on a walk with her owner, Risa Nagayama, 30, a nurse, and started to head straight for the elderly woman who was siting on a sidewalk.

According to Nagayama, Omochi appeared concerned about the elderly woman and stayed by her side until the police arrived.

Nagayama said that after they returned home that night, she played a lot with Omochi. 

She mentioned that she truly felt like her dog took notice of the situation well.

She also said she would like to continue to be mindful and take action by mustering the courage to reach out to people in need.

Omochi and Nagayama were presented with a letter of appreciation and pet food by police at Mito police station.

Nagayama noted that Omochi appeared excited about receiving the pet food.

Top photo from NHK