In Mission Viejo, Calif., an 11-year-old dog with three teeth has proven he still has dog feelings when he saves his little brother from a pair of coyotes.
The encounter took place in early May, according to CBS News Los Angeles coverageAfter owners David and Erin Macaluso returned home from a short walk.
The couple forgot to close the dog door, and the couple’s puppy, Harley, jumped out the door after hearing a noise in the backyard. Soon he encountered a pair of coyotes.
CCTV footage showed wild animals chasing Harley and grabbing him by the neck. And while the poor puppy was crying in pain, Vinny, a brave 11-year-old, 10-pound Maltese mix, just came to her little brother’s rescue.
The Macalusos said they were extremely proud of Vinny’s bravery and heroism.
David Macaluso called Vinnie a superhero and said: “He’s always been a scrapper. He’s not afraid of anything.” he revealed: “I think he just chased them and made a low-level growl that startled the coyotes.”
Erin Macaluso also revealed that Vinny’s reaction gave Hurley enough time to escape and avoid further injury. she said, “I’m looking for a dog cape because I think he deserves it. I want to give him a steak, but he doesn’t have teeth.”
According to the couple, Harley was taken to a veterinarian after the incident and received 20 stitches, which took several weeks to fully heal.
Erin Macaluso recalled Harley being bitten on both shoulders. “Doctors believe he may have been bitten three or four times.” she said.
The Macalusos hope their story will remind other pet parents to be wary of coyotes stalking their backyards.