After falling onto subway tracks, Cecil Williams’ guide dog Orlando jumped in to save his blind owner’s life. Fortunately, the heroic canine’s retirement is guaranteed with a loving home waiting for him. As Cecil recovers from the incident, he’s considering having two dogs – one that can work and another as a pet – provided his physical abilities, finances, and logistics allow it. Alternatively, the family that raised Orlando as a puppy would be delighted to have him back, Guiding Eyes for the Blind spokeswoman Michelle Brier revealed. They’re proud of their little baby and the significant impact he’s made.
According to Williams, he was unable to afford a non-working dog and was therefore planning to find a suitable home for Orlando. Although Guiding Eyes provides working dogs for free, they are unable to cover the expenses of retired dogs. However, after the Associated Press published an interview and pictures of Williams with Orlando in his hospital room, St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center has received offers of financial and other types of aid from concerned individuals. The hospital has delegated the responsibility of dealing with these offers to Guiding Eyes. Williams has stated that if he decides to take care of two dogs, he will need assistance in paying for the Lab’s care. According to Brier, Williams is currently in a difficult emotional state, and it remains unclear what he will choose to do.
The group planned to establish a fund and share details on their website. In case Williams does not require the money, it will be utilized for other service animals, as per Brier. A train had bumped Williams, 61, and Orlando, but they were both unharmed, which is an extraordinary conclusion to their frightening encounter. Williams had felt dizzy while heading to the dentist when the incident happened. Witnesses shared that Orlando had barked frantically and tried to prevent Williams from falling off the platform. Matthew Martin told the New York Post that Orlando had jumped onto the tracks and kissed Williams to motivate him to move as the train drew closer.
