March 31, 2008

INDEPENDENCE COUNTY, Ark. -– Saved from going to an Arkansas pound last year, a crippled, three-legged rat terrier had the chance to return the favor to her new owners last week.

Five-year old Tripod was sleeping in the bed with John and Mary Smith when a fire broke out in their home.

She is being credited as the reason why the disabled couple found the strength to make it out of the home.

“I can’t just say, she’s my angel,” said Mary Smith, overwhelmed with emotion of the tiny dog’s heroics.

With their blankets already on fire, Tripod urged the couple to hurry. But Mary was overwhelmed with the task of getting herself mobile, plus her husband into his wheelchair. She was ready to give up hope up – accepting their fate; however, Tripod had other plans.

“Tripod kept pulling on my gown getting me out and I said, ‘honey, please go on, go on,’ and she wouldn’t do it,” said the elderly woman. “She stayed right with me the entire time.”

Thanks to Tripod, her owners found the encouragement they needed to make it out unscathed -- a miraculous feat since the fire started in the couple’s bedroom.

The Smiths were the ones doing the saving last year when Tripod’s original owner was on the way to the pound with her.

“I said, ‘yes, bring her to me,’ ” said Mrs. Smith, who took her to a vet three days later.

The couple was concerned about Tripod’s front right leg, since she would not walk on it. While the vet said the leg could be re-broken to correct an old injury, “but as old as she is, to let it alone. She gets along just fine without it, so just let her live a happy life.”

It’s evident a happy life is what Tripod has. Her bum leg cannot keep her from jumping with delight to steal kisses and affection from the Smiths.

Now because of one another, Tripod, Mary and John will have the chance to keep enjoying each other’s love for a long time to come.

But for as beautiful as they all are together, puppy love won’t be enough for the Smiths to rebuild. They moved into their home only six months ago and didn’t have a homeowner’s insurance policy.

A relief fund has been set up with Citizen’s Bank and donations can be made at any local branch.

As for Tripod, she was treated to a day at the spa, complete with a pedicure and an oil rub down, by a Batesville dog groomer for her bravery.

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Robin Wallace, Pet Pulse, and KTHV Little Rock News contributed to this story.