It’s No Exaggeration to Say That Dogs Are Among the Most Intelligent and Loyal Animals
The story of a selfless dog risking his life to protect his owner from a venomous snake bite is sure to make you appreciate this lovable species even more.
Recently, a touching story about a golden retriever in the state of Arizona, USA, captured the hearts of netizens. The dog’s loyalty and bravery in saving his owner from a rattlesnake bite have left many in awe.
The owner, Paula Goodwin, shared the emotional story on her personal Facebook page. It happened during an early morning jog with her dog, Todd. While they were running, they encountered a rattlesnake. Just as Paula was about to step on it, Todd instinctively sensed the danger and leapt in front of her, shielding her from the imminent threat. His courageous action saved Paula from the venomous strike—but left Todd with a painful bite to the face, causing his face to swell up severely.
Paula and her dog had come across the rattlesnake during their morning jog. (Photo: Facebook Paula Goodwin)
Paula shared on Facebook:
“It was a beautiful morning until we were walking down the hill and I almost stepped on a rattlesnake. But my sweet hero Todd jumped right in front of my leg, where I surely would have been bitten. This is what a hero looks like. Please say a little prayer for this brave, loving pup.”
After the bite, Todd was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital in Anthem for treatment. Thankfully, he is now recovering well. Paula said she was incredibly touched by the outpouring of support and kind words for Todd from people around the world.
Todd on the Road to Recovery After the Venomous Snakebite
Paula’s Brave Golden Retriever Became Her Savior
Todd’s story of bravery received over 2,000 likes along with hundreds of comments filled with admiration and encouragement from the online community.
Rattlesnakes are classified as venomous snakes. Their venom can rapidly paralyze the nervous systems of prey like mice, birds, and other small animals, and may stop the victim’s heart within minutes of a bite. In humans, the venom enters through the wound and into the bloodstream, destroying blood vessel walls and causing severe internal bleeding. In some cases, a rattlesnake bite can even be fatal.
Todd was ready to risk his own life to protect the person he loved. Around the world, countless similar stories of dogs’ loyalty, compassion, and bravery have been recorded—further cementing dogs as one of the most beloved and cherished animals of all time.