A police dog in southwestern China, who continuously refused food and water while awaiting the return of its injured handler, has captured the hearts of millions online after their emotional reunion went viral.

According to Yunnan police, the officer, known by the alias Awei, hails from Chuxiong in Yunnan province. He is the handler of Bulu, a four-year-old German shepherd specially trained for narcotics detection in complex operational environments. The extent of their partnership and Bulu’s gender have not been disclosed.

In November last year, the duo were deployed in an operation at an abandoned building targeting drug-related suspects. Bulu quickly detected the sound of fleeing suspects and surged ahead, with Awei in pursuit.

However, in the dim light of the debris-filled corridor, Awei misstepped during the chase and fell from a second-storey height.

He was later found convulsing, vomiting blood, and slipping in and out of consciousness. In footage from the scene, an officer can be heard urging him: “Hold on. We still have battles to fight together.”

Meanwhile, Bulu remained by his side, anxiously circling and nuzzling him in a desperate effort to rouse him.

Awei was rushed to the hospital, where he remained in a coma for five days before regaining consciousness. Doctors diagnosed multiple fractures to his head and chest.

During his recovery, Bulu stayed at a training base, quietly awaiting his return.