A California angler is lucky his injuries weren't worse after his pet pit bull saved the day.
We know they're man's best friend, but would your dog take on a shark for you?
That's reportedly what went down in this story, shared by NBC Bay Area. The hero dog is now the epitome of a good fishing buddy.
James White was fishing from the shore at Bodega Bay in Sonoma County California last month, when he hooked into a sevengill shark, one he estimated to be about six feet long.
After a good 10-minute fight, White landed the shark and tried to remove the hook. That's when it thrashed, and bit down on the inside of his left ankle. Blood, pressure, and pain immediately followed.
Darby, White's pit bull that he had stashed in his waiting vehicle, sensed the commotion and intended on helping his owner. Somehow, he managed to open the door of the SUV and sprint down to the shore.
Here's the rest of the story:
The instinct and loyalty of a dog never ceases to amaze! If a pit bull is going to be considered an aggressive breed, wouldn't that be the instance you'd encourage it?!
White said the first bite punctured an artery, and is convinced the situation would have been much more dire if it weren't for Darby. Or, the "House Hippo," as his owners affectionately nicknamed him.
Darby deserves some lazy days on the couch after that act of valor!
White said he released the shark back into the water and it was able to swim away. Now both of them have a few teeth marks to remember the day.
"He's been a part of the family from day one. Just now a little more," White said of Darby. "If it wasn't for him I would have been a lot worse."
NEXT: BLACKTIPH CATCHES IGUANA WHILE FRESHWATER FISHING IN FLORIDA
WATCH
