Unit 04
Trusty, the dog hero.
[based on actual events]
Getting Started
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Trusty is the name of a guide dog who belongs to Harold Manning. Harold is blind, so Trusty assists him in getting around. Harold and trusty have been together for more than five years. Harold lives just a few blocks away from his company so Trusty helps Harold get safely to work every morning and safely home every evening. During work hours, Trusty will sit perfectly still next to Harold’s desk, patiently waiting to assist Harold whenever Harold might need her.

Harold works in a twenty-two story building. His office was two floors above a chemical lab of the company’s research and development department.

One day there was a big explosion in the lab. The explosion was so big that the floor of Harold’s office actually bounced underneath everyone’s feet. People began screaming and running in confusion.

Trusty, however, never left her place beside Harold’s desk. Guide dogs for the blind are trained to remain calm in emergency situations.

Although Harold couldn’t see, it was obvious that he was in a dangerous situation. Harold gave Trusty a command to lead him to safety. Even amid all noise, smoke, and confusion, Trusty did the job she was trained to do.

Trusty led Harold to the stairwell. When they got to the stairwell, there was so much smoke in the stairwell that some of the people didn’t know what to do. Harold told everyone to follow Trusty. He promised them that Trusty would know where to go. So trusty went through the door first while Harold held onto Trusty’s leash. The person behind Harold held on fast to Harold’s belt. And all the other’s held hands as Trusty lead the whole group down the stairs and out of the building.

The city’s mayor had a special ceremony for Trusty. Trusty was given a medal of honor for her bravery from the Fire Department and the mayor gave Trusty a key to the city.*

*In ancient times, cities had walls built around them and the only way into the city was through a big gate. A person would need a key to the gate to get inside. Only trusted friends of the city could have such a key. In modern times, cities give symbolic keys to celebrities and heroes.

Comprehension Questions
  1. Discuss these questions about the story with a partner.
  2. What is a guide dog?
  3. How long have Trusty and Harold been together?
  4. How far does Harold live from his workplace?
  5. What is Trusty’s main responsibility every day.
  6. When Harold is working at his desk, where is Trusty?
  7. Where was the explosion? Explain how big it was.
  8. Guide dogs are trained to remain calm in what kind of situations?
  9. What did Harold command Trusty to do?
  10. Why were people afraid to go down the stairwell?
  11. How did the people make sure they stayed together as they went down the stairwell?
  12. Explain what “key to the city” means.
Discussion
  1. Do an internet search for "amazing animals." Find and discuss an article.