It’s no surprise that animals adore their owners, dogs especially, but this love reached new heights this week at Johns Creek Harbor, Australia. According to lifewithdogs.tv, Sky — a once malnourished stray — was rescued by Franz Van Derpoll and the two quickly became best friends.
Courtney Fowler of Pilbara News reports that Derpoll was spear fishing for dinner when the heroic act occurred. As Derpoll dove into the water, he didn’t notice two sharks had begun to circle the area. By the time he realized his life was in serious danger, he returned to the boat only to see his loyal dog had already recognized the crisis and jumped in protect him (lifewithdogs.tv).
Derpoll told Fowler, “She was with me 24/7, if I was driving a fork lift to work she was on the fork lift… if I went out on the boat doing passenger runs she was on the boat with me.” He explains that she, “probably decided to jump over the side to protect me and when I came up from my second dive there was lots of blood in the water but no dog.”
Sky had sacrificed her own life for her beloved companion. If it hadn’t been for her courageous actions, Derpoll may have been the target. Sky was not an ordinary dog. Derpoll told Fowler, “Everyone at the harbor knows Sky, every single person. She never left the harbor… that was her home.” There is a special plaque that now hangs at Johns Creek Harbor in memory of Sky, says lifewithdogs.tv.
Derpoll’s daughter, Kate Freegard, explained to fowler just how special Sky was. “She was such a gentle, lovely dog who came into my dad’s life not long after my mum passed away; she certainly put the smile back on Dad’s face during such a sad time in life. Dad may have rescued her but I feel she is the one that rescued him too.”
This courageous dog will not soon be forgotten.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.