Hero guide dog jumps in front of bus to save owner

A dog literally threw itself under a bus to save its owner's life.

Golden retriever Figo is being hailed a hero after taking the impact when his blind owner Audrey Stone, 62, stepped into the path of an oncoming bus in New York.

The dog moved from the right side of Audrey over to the left to protect her.

Brewster Police Chief John Del Gardo said Figo would not leave Stone's side even after breaking its leg.

Speaking to CBS Local, Del Gardo said: "The dog did not want to leave the side of the woman at all...it was the same thing with her, she did not want to leave the dog's side. She was very, very concerned about the dog. My officers that were there and the Fire Department assured her everything would be fine.

"I've seen service dogs in action, they really are a working wonder."

Even local vet Dr Louann Pfeifer said: "I can't explain it. Whether he did that consciously or unconsciously, it's pretty amazing."

Audrey was still hit by the bus despite the dog's best efforts, and is in hospital recovering with a fractured elbow and ankle.

Both dog and owner are expected to be fine.

According to the Metro, Audrey said: "I thank him. I thank God that I have him and that he survived too. I love him.

'I want to get home to my dog."