Remembering the Heroic Dogs of 9/11

Two courageous dogs saved their owners' lives amid the danger and confusion following the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11. As the anniversary draws closer each year, many will remember these two heroic dogs of 9/11.

The Story of Dorado, One of the Heroic Dogs of 9/11

Dorado is a guide dog owned by Omar Rivera, a blind computer technician working on the 71^st floor of the World Trade Center on 9/11. Dorado, a yellow Labrador Retriever, became one of the heroic dogs of 9/11 by saving the life of his owner.

Dorado was near Rivera when the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11 began. But as pandemonium broke out, Dorado became separated from Rivera. But the courageous dog found his way back to Rivera and guided him to the crowded stairway. With the panic-stricken crowd pushing and struggling to get out, they slowly made their way down 70 flights of stairs of the demolished World Trade Center on 9/11.

The Story of Roselle, Another of the Heroic Dogs of 9/11

Roselle is another guide dog who became one of the heroic dogs of 9/11. Roselle, also a yellow Labrador Retriever, saved the life of her owner, Michael Hingson, a blind public speaker.

Roselle and Hingson were on the 78^th floor of the World Trade Center on 9/11. As Roselle guided Hingson toward the stairway, they encountered a woman who was having trouble seeing due to the smoke and particle debris. The brave Roselle led Hingson and the woman together down 77 flights of stairs to safety.

Both Heroic Dogs of 9/11 Receive Recognition

Later both Rivera and Hingson both spoke about the World Trade Center attack on 9/11 and attributed their lives to their heroic dogs of 9/11.

Rivera is quoted saying, "He guided me down 70 flights of the World Trade Center, it was amazing. It was then I knew for certain he loved me just as much as I loved him. He was prepared to die in the hope he might save my life. It was slow going but Dorado kept nudging me down step by step. I owe my life to Dorado - my companion and best friend."

Hingson said, "Roselle kept taking directions from me as we headed down the stairs of the World Trade Center. I owe my life to Roselle."

Both of these heroic dogs of 9/11 have received numerous awards including the Dickin Medal from Great Britain.