Darky the dog credited with saving life of owner suffering stroke by barking to summon help

A family pet has been hailed a lifesaver after he summoned help when his owner suffered a stroke out walking him in Torbay, Devon. The heroic actions of Darky the dog prevented a tragedy for his family from Churston Ferrers as it meant owner Arthur McGarvey was able to receive treatment in the crucial first hours window. Arthur's relieved wife Jean said: "The fact Arthur is making such a miraculous recovery is due to Darky and those who stopped to help out."

Arthur, 74, was out walking Darky in a field near to his home when he collapsed suffering from a stroke last week. With former policeman Arthur unable to move, the black labrador collie cross stood by his owner, barking in distress. The noise alerted passers-by who were able to get to Arthur and then contact the emergency services. Kelly Weeks was one of three employees from Bubble Cleaning who stopped when they heard him barking.



She said: "We were on our way to our next job when we happened to see the dog barking and going mad. When we stopped and pulled over we saw a man lying motionless in the field. After climbing through the hedge to get to Arthur we were able to call an ambulance. He was very poorly, only slightly moving and unable to talk. We put our coats over him and waited for the paramedics to arrive." Jean said it was down to Darky that Arthur was able to receive help so quickly.

She said: "The doctors have said it was extremely important paramedics were able to treat him quickly and administer the necessary medication. The quicker help is given, the quicker a recovery is made. Arthur is now able to walk with the help of a stick and has regained sight in one eye. He has already been home on day leave. He shed a tear once he was reunited with Darky and told us 'no more moaning at the dog!' Arthur is very active and walks him three times a day so it all came as a real shock. But to make such strong a recovery in seven days is just amazing." Daughter Denise added: "We are so grateful to those who stopped to help."