A man from California allowed his best friend, a pit bull named Buddy, to play in his backyard the night before Thanksgiving. A few seconds later, the same man would sacrifice his own life to save his dog from a 350-pound American black bear that was focused on destroying its prey.
Buddy was allowed to play in the backyard of Kaleb Bentham’s home in Green Valley, California. When the man heard an odd noise outside, nothing seemed out of sorts. He then decided to explore the noise and where it was coming from. He soon witnessed his terrified pit bull confronting a 350-pound American black bear.
Kaleb heard a snarl, and to his horror, he observed a bear dragging his dog by the head.
Even though he was appalled by what he was witnessing at that moment, he was willing to do anything for the dog he had saved years before, regardless of the cost. Knowing what he must do, he resolved to act and confront the bear head-on. The average person would not confront a bear, but Kaleb was willing to do everything for his best friend.
In order to save Buddy, Kaleb took no chances. He charged at the bear, collided with it, tackled it, and seized its throat. He struck the bear repeatedly in the face and eye until it freed his dog.
The bear chose to release Buddy and flee into the woods in response to Kaleb’s stern measures. However, neither Kaleb nor Buddy were out of the woods yet, as Buddy’s wounds required treatment. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the local veterinary hospital was unfortunately closed. Fortunately, the Grass Valley, California Mother Lode Veterinary Hospital was open and willing to assist Kaleb and his best friend.
Veterinarians needed three and a half hours to suture the pit bull’s wounds. Buddy miraculously survived and is currently on the hard road to rehabilitation.
On the other hand, the bear remains at large and has often returned to the area. Kaleb was willing to use any measures, including violence, to ensure Buddy’s safety. He views his dog as his child and is willing to sacrifice his life for him.
Source: CBS SACRAMENTO