A family in Gawler, South Australia, is mourning the loss of their six-month-old golden retriever puppy, Walter, who was killed by a lightning strike during a sudden thunderstorm on Sunday.
Walter was playing in the backyard when the storm passed over the area. His owners, Sarah and James Somerville, were unaware of the danger until their daughter, Hannah, discovered the puppy with blood coming from his mouth.
James Somerville told 7NEWS that Hannah was in hysterics when she called him. He said, 'Basically, the words I got out of her were “Walter is dead, our puppy had died.”'
The family suspected a lightning strike based on Walter's injuries, and a veterinarian later confirmed the cause. CCTV footage showed Walter and their older retriever outside during the storm.
The Somervilles are now warning pet owners to keep animals indoors during lightning storms. James said, 'It doesn’t matter whether it’s your child or your pet. Your pet is still part of your family, they’re still a loved one.'
