‘He was not alone’: the body of the missing man was guarded by a beloved dog

TOWN OF WATSON, N.Y. (WWNY) – When the body of 39-year-old Cody Johnson was found off a trail in the town of Watson on Wednesday, he wasn’t alone.

Johnson’s pit bull, Afton, who acted as her service animal, was by her side, initially refusing to leave her late owner’s side.

Lewis County Sheriff Mike Carpinelli says the 4-day search ended when a volunteer found Johnson near a campsite they knew.

It is believed that he died as a result of the cold.

“I think it’s kind of comforting to know that he wasn’t alone out there — the dog that had been with him for quite some time. His companion and the loyalty that he had with Cody, he stayed with him all those days and those nights.” Carpinelli said.

Carpinelli says Afton initially refused to allow searchers to approach Johnson, but relaxed after being given cookies and water.

The dog is now being cared for by a family friend and will soon be released to family members coming from North Carolina.

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