A three-year-old boy from Ponce de Leon, Florida went missing one day, causing his family to panic. The non-communicative toddler named Marshall Butler was diagnosed with autism and may have difficulties going back home. It had been an hour since anyone last saw him, and his family quickly called the local authorities. They also realized that their two dogs, Buckwheat and Nala, were gone as well.
A neighborhood search was quickly organized, with county officers and their K9 teams taking the lead. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission also joined the search party. All throughout the operation, Marshall's family was terrified. But somehow, they were relieved a bit knowing that their pets were with their little boy.
Protection
For several hours, the rescue team scoured the entire area, always keeping in contact with the worried family. They also used social media to get help from the community. The authorities posted pictures of the toddler as well as the dogs. They hope that someone will see the kid or any of the two dogs and get any information to help their search.
Their efforts worked when one of the residents saw the little boy near a river. He was about a mile away from their home. The toddler was playing near the bank, just wearing a diaper.
And, of course, the two dogs were around him. The canines seemingly were looking out for Marshall.
Grateful
The kid's mom was so thankful for everyone who helped in the search. Marshall was dirty from playing with soil but was unharmed. She credits their dogs for guiding her son and keeping him safe. She also said their pets adored the toddler and were always playing with him.
Marshall's mom thinks the dogs felt it was their duty to keep the small boy away from harm. For doing a good job, they will receive many treats for sure.
Source: Walton County Sheriff's Office, Florida via Facebook