Heroic Horse
A horse that saved a drowning man in a river in China has died.
A horse that saved a drowning man in a river in China has died.
In a heartwarming yet bittersweet story from China, a heroic horse named Belong, whose name means "white dragon," has been posthumously honored with a statue after saving a drowning man in Hubei Province. The 7-year-old horse, celebrated for its bravery, tragically passed away just days after the rescue due to illness, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and selflessness.
The incident occurred when a man accidentally fell into a river in central China's Hubei Province. Belong's owner, who was training the horse on the riverbank at the time, immediately sprang into action. Without hesitation, the owner mounted Belong and rode into the river to attempt the rescue. Despite never having been in water before, Belong fearlessly obeyed his owner's commands and plunged into the river, playing a crucial role in saving the drowning man.
The horse's owner later recounted the event, expressing admiration for Belong's bravery. "Belong had never been in the water before, but he didn't hesitate to jump into the river when I asked him to. He followed my orders and helped save the man's life," the owner said.Â
The rescue was a testament to the strong bond between the horse and its owner, as well as Belong's remarkable intelligence and courage.
However, just days after the heroic act, Belong fell ill. The horse developed a high fever and stopped eating and drinking. A veterinarian examined Belong and diagnosed him with an intestinal infection, a common but serious condition in horses. Despite efforts to treat him, Belong's condition worsened, and he passed away on February 11, 2024, a day after he stopped eating and drinking.
The news of Belong's death saddened the local community, which had already begun to celebrate the horse as a hero. In recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, the local government announced plans to erect a statue of Belong near the river where the rescue took place. The statue will serve as a permanent tribute to the horse's extraordinary act of courage and the bond between humans and animals.
The story of Belong has captured the hearts of people across China and beyond, highlighting the incredible role animals can play in human lives. Belong's selfless actions remind us of the profound connections we share with animals and the lengths to which they will go to protect and serve their human companions.
As the statue of Belong takes its place by the river, it will stand not only as a memorial to a brave horse but also as a symbol of hope, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of heroism. Belong's legacy will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that his courageous act is never forgotten.