Dogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, always ready to lend a helping paw, whether to humans or other animals in need. But it’s especially heartwarming when they show this compassion for a completely different species. One such incredible bond formed between a German Shepherd and a young, injured deer—a friendship that surprised even the dog’s owner. Sarge, a 9-year-old German Shepherd, found himself playing an unexpected role when his owner, Cheryl Stephen, brought home a fragile, orphaned fawn she discovered by the roadside.
Cheryl named the little deer Buckwheat and had no idea how Sarge would react to having such an unusual newcomer in the house. To Cheryl’s astonishment, Sarge’s instincts kicked in right away. “It was like a switch flipped, and Sarge immediately took to Buckwheat,” Cheryl shared with The Dodo. “He insisted on being a part of every part of the fawn’s care… He practically became Buckwheat’s protector.”
As the deer gradually regained his strength, Sarge took it upon himself to guide his new friend. Whenever they went outside, Sarge would stay close to Buckwheat, ensuring he didn’t stray too far. Buckwheat, in turn, looked up to Sarge like an older sibling, following him around the yard.
“When we brought Buckwheat outside, Sarge would stay right next to him and keep him from wandering off,” Cheryl explained. Eventually, as Buckwheat grew bigger and more independent, the day came when it was time for him to return to the wild. Though it was bittersweet for Sarge, he knew his friend was ready to explore life on his own.
But Sarge’s role as a guardian didn’t end there. Over the years, Cheryl continued to rescue and care for orphaned or injured deer, and Sarge was always thrilled to welcome each new arrival. He’s become Cheryl’s trusted assistant in their rehabilitation efforts, providing not just protection but also a sense of security to the fragile animals.
“When I walk through the door with a fawn, Sarge immediately springs into action,” Cheryl recalled. “He rushes over, eager to check on them, sniffing and inspecting them to gauge their condition.” His dedication doesn’t go unnoticed by the young deer either. Cheryl noted that the fawns seemed to naturally gravitate toward Sarge, feeling safe and comforted by his presence.
“He stays by their side and never leaves them alone,” Cheryl said, touched by her dog’s unwavering commitment. While some of the fawns don’t make it despite their best efforts, Cheryl and Sarge ensure that each one is treated with care and compassion.
A man couldn't afford to pay for the surgery his dog desperately needed, so he decided to improvise and do it himself. In a shocking case of animal cruelty, the man admitted to applying tooth-numbing gel to his dog's leg and then amputating it.
Sarge’s extraordinary devotion has turned him into more than just a household pet—he’s become a guardian and friend to many, forming bonds that cross species and show the profound impact one caring soul can have.
Toledo, United States.
