Benny was rescued in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and repaid that love by staying by the side of his adoptive dad until he passed away unexpectedly
Benny was rescued in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and adopted by his family in Washington (Image: Alexis Nazarino)
A loyal dog who was rescued in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey has repaid the love shown by his adoptive dad by staying by his side till the bitter end.
The fierce storm ripped across Texas and Louisiana in August 2017, destroying thousands of homes, causing catastrophic flooding and 88 deaths.
Little Benny was rescued in the aftermath adopted by a family in Washington and he repaid that love to the day his owner tragically died.
Dog dad Scott Ballenger was Benny’s best friend and the pair quickly became inseparable. When it came to the time Scott really needed a friend the little dog stepped up to the mark.
Little Benny remained loyal to the end (Image: Alexis Nazarino)
Following her dad’s death Alexis Nazarino, Scott’s daughter, told The Dodo of their unique bond: “Benny was unsure of men and we don’t know his background, but he loved my dad and heard his car coming even before [Benny’s] mom did after work.”
Scott and his girlfriend brought Benny everywhere because of his fear and nervousness of other people.
From the moment he arrived in his new home, he and his dad, Scott Ballenger, were the best of friends, and did absolutely everything together (Image: Alexis Nazarino)
So when he was was admitted to the hospital in serious condition in August, Benny only wanted to be by his side.
Alexis said: “Benny would sniff his head and face but was really unsure what was going on.
“He would sit with dad for a few minutes here and there.”
When Scott got ill Benny wouldn’t leave his side no matter what (Image: Alexis Nazarino)
As the end neared closer the little brown dog curled up against his rescuer. The following day Scott passed away.
It was “true love,” says Alexis, who says Benny has been pining for his dad ever since and never stopped trying to look for him during the day, and whimpers through the night.
Since their dad’s death the Ballengers have come together to support each other, with Benny secure at the beating heart of the family.
Source: dailystar.co.uk
