Carina Edlinger, a visually impaired Austrian skier, had a lot of people to thank after she won two medals in cross-country skiing at the 2022 Winter Paralympics in Beijing. But there was someone she knew she wanted to acknowledge in front of everyone as she was honored during one of the medal ceremonies: her guide dog, Riley.
Riley, who is five years old, has remained by Edlinger’s side for quite some time. She adores him and wants to express her gratitude for everything he’s done for her.
Riley went up to smell the medals for Edlinger and her guide when they were originally brought over, hoping to find something for himself. He had no idea that his time was approaching.
After accepting her medal, Edlinger dug into her pocket and took out a second medal, this one designed just for Riley. She placed the medal around Riley’s neck carefully and stood back, allowing him to have his moment as well.
Riley’s medal acceptance on the Olympic podium was adored by all, perhaps even more than the gold acceptances of the human athletes.
Riley posed for photos with his mother after receiving his medal and showing off their medals. It was a huge day for both of them, and they were overjoyed to be able to share it with each other.
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