Bretagne, the last known surviving 9/11 rescue dog, returned to New York City to celebrate her 16th birthday.

The white-faced golden retriever was flown up from Texas with her hero handler and owner Denise Corliss as guests of honor. Bretagne was just 2 years old at the time.

As their relentless, 12-hour days went on, she said their work went from search and rescue to recovery efforts. Throughout the physical and emotional turmoil, Bretagne often took it upon herself to serve as a comfort to firefighters and first responders. With a nudge of her snout she's credited with breaking the strongest stone faces."

Bretagne was welcomed at her hotel with a room full of toys and treats, a canine-friendly birthday cake and a $1,000 donation from the hotel.

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