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A man and his dog, reunited

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Friday, January 13, 2012

(Updated 12:40 pm)

By Martha Waggoner
Associated Press

RALEIGH (AP) — An 88-year-old Rocky Mount man who was separated from his dog when he left his home under duress is about to move to a new place.

Volunteers who came to the aid of Walter Bryant Jr. say they'll start moving him into a new house this weekend. One anonymous benefactor offered to pay his rent for a year, while another donated $5,000 so Bryant and his dog, Koal, could get back together permanently.

The two have been living together at a hotel since New Year's Eve.

They were separated in November when Bryant left the house because it didn't have heat. He also felt pressure because the city would like his house for a redevelopment project, and he has relatives who stand to profit if the house is sold.

Accompanying Photos

Gerry Broome (Associated Press)

Photo Caption: In this Dec. 12, 2011 photo, Walter C. Bryant Jr., 88, sits on the front porch of his childhood home during a visit with his dog Koal in Rocky Mount.

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jeaniegnc

January 13, 2012 - 1:03 pm EST

Thank you to the caring people who are helping this gentleman and his dog. I hope they have many happy years together.

zelliegirl

January 13, 2012 - 3:32 pm EST

Isn't it sad that strangers stood up for him before his own family would. Glad he is back with his dog. Hope karma comes knocking on the door of the family members that stand to profit from moving him out of his house.