Bella Burton is just like any other 11-year-old girl. She likes to swim, ride her bike, and hang out with her best friend, with whom she spends all her time.
But Burton's best friend, George, isn't just an average best friend. He's a Great Dane, and he helps Burton through all of her favorite activities.
Burton was born with a rare metabolic disorder called Morquio syndrome, which causes dwarfism and abnormal bone growth. That means she has trouble walking, and stands under four feet tall. She's not expected to get much taller.
But with George by her side, she can do anything.
Before George, a licensed therapy dog, Burton relied on a wheelchair and crutches to get around, but with George's help, she's getting stronger and better at balancing on her own.
And like any good friend, George is there to lean on when she needs it.
Great Danes are really big dogs, but they make great therapy dogs and have even saved lives. For Burton, George is more than just a best friend and companion — he's also teaching her how to be independent, and encouraging her to get the activity and exercise she needs to be healthy.
Check out the adorable friendship between this little girl and her big dog below!
[H/T: Wide Open Pets]
Bella Burton is 11 years old. She was born with a rare metabolic disorder called Morquio syndrome, which causes her bones to grow differently than other people's. As a result, she has dwarfism and sometimes has trouble walking.
But that's where George, her Great Dane therapy dog, comes in.
With George's help, Burton is becoming more independent and gaining strength. She gets to improve her mobility by taking him on walks…
… as well as for runs on her scooter.
And he's also there when she takes to the water!
George is actually the one who picked out Burton, instead of the other way around.
When Burton and her family went to the Service Dog Project in Ipswich, MA, George came right up and placed his paw on Burton's leg.
And they've been together ever since.
George accompanies Burton everywhere, giving her the confidence and the physical and emotional support she needs to partake in her favorite activities and in new adventures.
He comes with her to games…
… and on explorations.
He's always there for her.
His dedication makes him popular with all kinds of people.
And he never minds playing a little dress-up himself from time to time.
And he's always by her side, even when they're just hanging out at home…
… or daydreaming in the grass.
He never leaves Burton for a moment, even while she sleeps. He's always right there.
As Bella grows and explores even more, she knows that George will always have her back.
Thanks to George, Bella Burton will grow up strong and independent, and won't let her condition slow her down.
You can keep up with her adventures with George on Facebook!
Please SHARE if you believe dogs can love their humans with all their hearts.
