Fri Feb 14 12:46:59 UTC 2025: ## Heroic Horse Dies After Saving Drowning Man in China
**Xiantao, Hubei Province, China** – Bailong, a seven-year-old white horse, has died six days after a daring rescue mission that saved a drowning man, leaving his owner and the rescued man heartbroken. The horse, whose name means “White Dragon,” reportedly showed no prior experience swimming but bravely entered the water to pull the man to safety on February 4th.
The rescue unfolded when a man fell from a bridge into a river in Xiantao. Yilibai, Bailong’s owner, who was training nearby, immediately spurred the horse into action. Despite the risks, Bailong swam over 40 meters, carrying Yilibai, who held the reins in one hand while pulling the drowning man with the other.
“I didn’t think twice,” Yilibai recounted at the time. “To save a life, I had to act.”
Tragically, Bailong fell ill just days later, refusing food and exhibiting symptoms including fever. Despite veterinary intervention, the horse succumbed to his illness on February 11th. The rescued man expressed deep guilt over Bailong’s death. Yilibai, overcome with grief, has asked that the incident not be discussed in his presence.
In recognition of Bailong’s heroism, the Xiantao City government is processing bravery awards for Yilibai and other rescuers and plans to erect a statue of the horse near the river. The bravery award is expected to be approximately Rs 35,600 (3,000 yuan). The incident has touched the hearts of many, highlighting the extraordinary bond between human and animal, and the ultimate sacrifice made by Bailong in the service of saving a human life.
First Piper 