University Of Wyoming Hosting Rock Art Exhibition In Honor Of Boy Attacked By Dog

The University of Wyoming is hosting an exhibit of some of the thousands of rocks sent to the young Cheyenne boy who saved his sister last year from an attacking dog.

November 11, 20212 min read

Bridger happy
(Cowboy State Daily Staff)

The University of Wyoming is hosting an exhibit of some of the thousands of rocks sent to the young Cheyenne boy who saved his sister last year from an attacking dog.

A reception for the exhibit, where people can meet hero Bridger Walker, will be held at the UW Geological Museum in Laramie from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. The event is free and open to the public.

“In 2020, Bridger saved his younger sister from an attacking dog, and news of his heroic act went global. As a result, thousands of fans sent Bridger rocks, paintings and even videos from celebrities recognizing his bravery,” said Laura Vietti, collections manager for the UW Geological Museum. “Here, for the first time, Bridger and his family are sharing some of his favorite rocks and art pieces as a temporary exhibition at the UW Geological Museum.”

Bridger, who was 6 at the time, stood between his little sister and a charging dog last July. He was bitten “several times” on the face and head, but managed to grab his sister’s hand and run away with her to keep her safe.

His wounds required about 90 stitches and he has also received laser treatments to reduce the scars from the attack.

When the story went viral last year, the boy’s heroics were noted by many actors who play superheroes in the “Avengers” movies, including Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Evans (Captain America), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Tom Holland (Spider-Man) and Mark Ruffalo (the Incredible Hulk). Other actors who sent encouraging messages included Hugh Jackman, who starred as Wolverine in the “X-Men” films and Anne Hathaway, who played Catwoman in “The Dark Knight Rises.”

Bridger and his family will be at the museum reception to celebrate “Bridger’s honorary exhibit,” Vietti said. The event also will include an interactive activity table put up by the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium at UW.

The exhibition will be on display through June 2022.