From:
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/...430076827.html

Toddler cuddled his dog to combat night in the cold
July 7 2003

A two-year-old boy and his pet German Shepherd dog have survived a night in
near freezing temperatures, east of Adelaide.

Zach Thompson went missing from his family property near Murray Bridge
Saturday afternoon and grave fears were held for his safety as overnight
temperatures plunged to just four degrees.

A massive search was organised with about 70 police, Country Fire Service
and State Emergency Service personnel involved as well as a rescue
helicopter and the police dog squad.

But the boy was possibly saved by Bear, the four-month-old dog who stayed
with him all night, right up to his discovery this morning in a paddock
about two kilometres from his home.

"He stayed with him the whole night - what a dog," said father Nigel
Thompson.

Zach was taken to Murray Bridge hospital for treatment for mild hypothermia
but was discharged soon after.

Paramedics who first checked him out said he was in good spirits and
talkative and appeared most concerned about his dog.

Bear was temporarily scared off by the police helicopter involved in this
morning's search.

Zach's mother Rebecca Launer said it was a great relief to have her son
back.

"I was just worried about the cold and him not having anything to eat and
drink," she told reporters.