Dogs possess remarkable senses and instincts, often detecting danger before humans do and saving lives in the process.
Such was the recent case where a man’s life was spared from a potentially lethal snake encounter, all thanks to his quick-thinking dog.
In a Facebook post dated July 24th, Zachary Pate of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, recounted how his dog Ruger became his savior: “Ruger saved me a trip to the hospital. Maybe even my life,” Pate expressed.
Initially puzzled by Ruger’s sudden aggressive behavior during a lakeside stroll, Pate soon realized that his dog was not attacking him but was, in fact, trying to shield him from a Copperhead snake.
“I turned around to grab him, and he held a Copperhead snake against a tree trunk,” Pate detailed in his post.
Copperhead snakes, being venomous, tend to strike when threatened, often catching people off guard due to their camouflaged appearance on the ground. Their bites can lead to severe injuries and, in some cases, even fatalities.
Thanks to Ruger’s swift and intelligent intervention, Pate was spared a potentially dangerous situation. Ruger bravely confronted the snake, ensuring both man and dog emerged unscathed from the ordeal.
While Ruger’s actions did result in a minor cut on Pate’s arm from trying to pull him away, Pate expressed gratitude, saying, “I’d rather have this cut than the bite of that Copperhead.”
Pate expressed his deep appreciation for Ruger’s selfless act and was moved by the extent his dog went to ensure his safety: “I almost had to cry, knowing he was risking his life to save me,” Pate shared.
“I literally sat down with him and held him. This man is by far my protector. The award for the best dog ever goes to this man… Grateful for my best friend.”
“It really gives meaning to why dog is spelled God backwards,” Pate remarked to WVTM 13.
Well done, Ruger! Thank you for courageously stepping in to save your owner from a grave danger.
Share this incredible story if you have a soft spot for dogs!
