Woman Screams As Snake Attacks—Dog Jumps In and Takes the Venom for Her

A Border collie has been dubbed a hero after he protected his owner from a venomous rattlesnake—earning praise from people all over the world.

The 8-year-old canine, named Dog, lives in Killeen, Texas, with his owner. She let out a scream when she encountered a juvenile Western diamondback rattlesnake while pulling weeds outside her home.

Her niece, Chloe Palousek, 28, told Newsweek that the frightening moment took a dramatic turn when the snake reared its head—and Dog sprang into protector mode. “She saw it raise its head and screamed,” Palousek said. “Dog, who was already outside, ran over to her and picked up the snake … It bit his lip.”

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico and carries a dangerous venom that destroys blood cells and tissue, causes pain and swelling, and can impair blood clotting.

One of the most frequently responsible species for snakebites in the U.S., the rattlesnake’s bites can be deadly if left untreated, especially for children and the elderly.

Dog was immediately rushed to the vet, where he received antivenin and spent the night under observation. Despite the painful encounter, thankfully he made a swift recovery.

“His doctor said he was doing amazing,” Palousek said. “He’s on antibiotics, steroids, and pain meds, but he’s doing a lot better. The swelling from the bite only lasted about three days.”

Palousek shared Dog’s heroic actions on Reddit where the post has gained over 4,000 upvotes and more than 400 comments. The reactions flooded Dog with well wishes and admiration.

“What a good boy! I sure hope he makes it though this with no lasting issues,” said one commenter.

Another wrote: “Poor baby. I love this breed. They truly love and protect their humans. They are so beautiful on the inside and out.”

“Give that bestest boy a steak,” posted a third. One comment added: “Oh my god I cried when I saw this. I’m glad he’s going home. Best doggy gets all the love. Give him kisses for me!!”

Palousek was delighted by the reaction online: “The reaction from Reddit has been wonderful, and full of support and kind words. He has a huge support system, and we are very grateful,” she said.

Dog isn’t the first pet to have a face-to-face encounter with a snake. Last year, another canine learned the hard way that “snakes are friends, not food,” when he was bitten by a rattlesnake.

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