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German Shepherd Thanks Her Adopter By Saving Him From A Stroke

Written by: Molly Weinfurter
Molly Weinfurter is a writer for iHeartDogs, and she’s passionate about helping animals in need. She volunteers for Bailing Out Benji and a local dog rescue.Read more
| Published on February 4, 2021

For some dogs, the adjustment to a new home is seamless. Sadie the 6-year-old German Shepherd found comfort in her forever home as quickly as she could. Getting adopted was a bit overwhelming for her, but she learned who her human was without hesitation.

After only a few months with her new dad Brian Myers, Sadie did something incredible. When Myers had a stroke, Sadie jumped into action as if she’d been trained to do so. She ended up saving Myers’ life with her quick thinking. Myers saved her when he adopted her, so she was just returning the favor.

Heroic German Shepherd Rescue
Image: @rbarishelter/Facebook

An Unlikely Bond

Sadie’s former family surrendered her to the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge in New Jersey. They were moving, but were unable to bring Sadie with them. So, the sweet German Shepherd was left behind, wondering why the only family she ever knew didn’t want her.

The shelter quickly noticed that Sadie was deeply loyal once she got to know someone. However, Sadie also had a history of being hesitant around men, which limited her options. But when she met Myers, all that changed. The two formed an unlikely bond, and Myers knew he had to give the 6-year-old dog a loving home.

Sadie wasn’t home long before her protective instincts kicked in. Only a few months after her adoption, Myers suffered a stroke while he was sleeping. Somehow, Sadie knew exactly what to do.

Happy Rescue German Shepherd
Image: @rbarishelter/Facebook

“I was sleeping and I had to use the bathroom in the night. As soon as I stepped on the floor I went down and hit the ground. I couldn’t get back up,” Myers said.

Rescue Dog Saves Rescuer

When Sadie realized something was wrong, she rushed to her dad’s side. She kept licking his face to help him stay awake. Then, she pulled him toward his phone so he could call 911 without getting up.

“I just grabbed a hold of her collar and she started pulling her weight backwards. And with that I was able to slide myself across the floor. Otherwise, I would probably still be laying there,” said Myers.

German Shepherd Cuddling Stuffed Animal
Image: Screenshot, newyork.cbslocal.com

The German Shepherd’s heroic act likely saved her human’s life. Even though she’s the rescue dog, she ended up rescuing him in the end. Now, Myers is in the hospital recovering while Sadie stays with his brother. The two can’t wait to see each other again, so Myers video chats Sadie every night.

Myers hopes to be released within the next week. He’s already planning for his emotional reunion with the rescue dog. He said he can’t wait to give her a big hug. After all, she deserves love and cuddles now more than ever.

H/T: newyork.cbslocal.com
Featured Image: @rbarishelter/Facebook

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