AR-News: (New Zealand) Lifegoard Cow Saves Farmer's Wife

[Snugglezzz at aol.com]

2-23-04

Lifeguard Cow Saves Farmer's Wife 

WOODVILLE, New Zealand (UPI) -- The heroism of a swimming cow won't likely spawn a "Cow Watch" television show, but a New Zealand woman owes her life to a bovine lifeguard regardless. 

Kim Riley was herding a herd of 350 cows in early morning darkness Tuesday when they were caught in a torrent of floodwater created by the devastating storm that swept New Zealand early this week. 

Riley told The Telegraph some animals panicked, and she received painful kicks as they were swept along. 

That's where the cow, named only No. 569, became her savior. 

"I thought most of the cows had abandoned me," Riley said "They were strong swimmers and left me in their wake. But I looked back and saw one of the last cows bearing down on me, No. 569. As she went by I threw my arm over her neck." 

She said when they hit firm ground, they both sat down, puffing and shaking. 

Riley previously held little regard for No. 569, calling her "an ugly old tart," but admitted she would find time to thank the beast.