Family dog finds, saves young boy

Family dog protects lost toddler until found

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Cheryl Santa Maria

Digital Reporter

Wednesday, May 7, 2014, 3:28 PM - A young boy is safe and sound at home after a seven-hour ordeal, thanks to his best friend.

Three year-old Carson Urness and his best friend, a golden retriever/German shepherd mix named Cooper, went missing in Cooperstown, North Dakota Monday night.

Carson's mom Courtney says about 200 people showed up to help search for the duo on foot, horse, ATV and by plane -- but around 2 a.m. it started to rain, prompting heartbroken officials to call off the search.

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Just as everyone was turning to head home, a volunteer flashed his headlights over a hill and saw Cooper.

The pair were about 1 km away from home. Courtney says the dog refused to leave the boy's side throughout the whole ordeal.

Carson's jeans were torn and his jacket ripped, but he was unharmed.

A doctor said the boy only suffered from cold feet, thanks to his best friend who kept him warm all night.

Thumbnail file photo courtesy: Flickr/Sadie Hart