What lengths would you go to save your dog’s life? Most dog parents wouldn’t think twice about running to the rescue if their dog was in danger, but it’s easier said than done.
When 17-year-old Hailey saw a bear climbing over the fence in her backyard toward her four dogs, she had to think fast. In a shocking viral video, Hailey runs outside and shoves the bear off the fence seconds before it carries away her small dog. Hailey admits that it wasn’t the most well thought out decision, but it saved her dogs’ lives!
An Unforgettable Family Event
During a Memorial Day gathering, Hailey and her family witnessed one of the scariest moments of their lives. A mother bear and her two cubs climbed onto the family’s fence in California. In the security video, at least four dogs are seen running toward the bear, barking their heads off. At first, Hailey assumed they were barking at other dogs like usual, but she’s glad she double-checked.
The mom bear swiped her paw at the larger dog and eventually tried to grab a small dog named Valentina. Hailey had no time to think. She rushed out toward the bear and shoved it off the fence. Luckily, the bear toppled backward and dropped Valentina in the process.
“I go over to the bear, I look it in the eyes, and the first thing I think to do is push it,” said Hailey. “Push a bear. Push an apex predator. And to be honest, I don’t think I pushed her that hard. I just pushed her enough to make her lose her balance.”
Luckily, everyone got away without serious injuries. One of the dogs had some minor scratches, and Hailey sprained her finger and scraped her knee.
Don’t Push Bears
As it turns out, the family is new to the area, and they live in the mountains. So, bears seem to be fairly common near them. This isn’t the family’s first time seeing bears near their house, but they have never been so close to them before. Both Hailey and her mom, Citlally Morinico, said that while Hailey’s tactics were effective, they don’t recommend that anyone else do what she did.
“Do not push bears,” Hailey said. “Don’t do what I did, you might not have the same outcome.”
The video went viral after Hailey’s cousin Brenda posted it on TikTok. Now, dog lovers all over the world are viewing Hailey as a hero. If it weren’t for her quick thinking, Valentina might not have made it. Yet, it’s important to remember that she also put herself in danger, which could’ve ended very badly.
There are many stories of people fighting animals like alligators and coyotes for dogs, but they don’t always have a happy ending. Be extra cautious around wild animals to keep you and your dogs safe. Luckily, the family is planning to build a taller fence so this doesn’t happen again.
Watch the Security Footage Here:
H/T: ktla.com
Featured Image: Screenshot, WFAA YouTube
Toledo, United States.
