George's heroism was internationally recognised, and he received posthumous awards from New Zealand and British animal charities.

A 30-centimetre (12 in)-tall Jack Russell Terrier[1] with "a heart condition", George lived in Manaia, Taranaki, New Zealand[2] with his owner, widower Alan Gay.

[2] The pit bulls were also euthanised, and their owner "[faced] prosecution for owning dangerous and uncontrolled dogs.

[5] In February 2009, Sky News reported that George had been 14 years old when he faced off two pit bulls to defend five children aged 3–12.

Jerrell Hudman, a United States Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, was so impressed by George's actions, he told the Taranaki Herald that he would send Gay one of his three Purple Hearts.