For many people, pets are a source of companionship. But for others, they're essential to daily life—and even survival. That’s especially true for David Barlet, a 55-year-old Army veteran from Medina County, Ohio, whose bond with his service dog Gunter goes far beyond affection.
Barlet, who served in the U.S. Army for 33 years, was diagnosed with epilepsy near the end of his military career. That’s when he discovered that German shorthaired pointers, like Gunter, could be trained to detect seizures before they happen. As reported by Cleveland’s WJW, these dogs are able to guide their owners to a safe space—such as a couch or bed—before a seizure begins.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever been closer with another animal in my life,” Barlet said. His connection with Gunter is a lifeline.
That lifeline was suddenly in jeopardy over the Fourth of July weekend. On the evening of July 3, Gunter was outside on a leash with Barlet’s wife while neighbors set off fireworks. Startled by the loud booms, Gunter broke free, knocking her down in the process, and disappeared into the night.
In the days that followed, the Barlets launched a search effort, posting flyers and asking for help. The community rallied around them, with locals sharing Gunter’s photo online and helping spread the word.
“We tried to hold it together around people, but in the evening time when it was just us, the house was so full of emotion, between him being missing and the support we saw from the community,” Barlet told WJW.
Two days later, an 11-year-old boy in the area heard soft cries coming from a wooded patch nearby. After bringing in his parents to investigate, they discovered Gunter tangled by his leash around a small tree. The dog had been stuck without food or water, but was still alive.
The moment Barlet and Gunter reunited was nothing short of cinematic. As soon as Barlet got out of the car, Gunter sprinted toward him. Miraculously, the dog was in good condition, Barlet said.
Grateful doesn’t begin to cover how the Barlets—and the broader community—feel about the young boy’s role in bringing Gunter home. The local police chief and countless pet owners on social media praised the child’s compassion and courage.
“Someone that he didn’t even know was hurting and was in need, and so he did that,” Barlet said. “I tell you I can hardly see the kid without really getting emotional, he’s very, very special to us.”
