Heroic Dog Nets PETA Award for Saving 10-Year-Old Boy From Rattlesnake

Brave Pup Who Shielded Guardian From Snake—and Got Bit on the Nose—Is Honored With a Framed Certificate and ‘Doggie Bag’ of Goodies

For Immediate Release:
October 23, 2017

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Heroic Dog Award from PETA is on its way to the California home of 10-year-old Cole Lewis in recognition of his beloved boxer Nala, who risked her life to save Cole from a rattlesnake.

On October 15, Cole was walking his bike down a neighborhood dirt trail with his mother when a rattlesnake jumped out and hit the bike. Cole yelled, and Nala ran over, putting her body between him and the snake. The snake shot forward and bit Nala on the nose before retreating. Cole’s stepfather, Anthony Borquez, arrived on the scene and knew that time was against his 8-month-old pup. He immediately rushed Nala to an animal hospital, where she was aggressively treated for the deadly venom and, to everyone’s relief, released in good condition two days later.

“Like many dogs before her, this loyal pup jumped into harm’s way to protect her pack,” says PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange. “PETA hopes this story will encourage all dog guardians to treat their canine companions as members of the family by taking them on walks, playing with them, keeping them safe, and showering them with affection.”

To recognize Nala’s bravery, PETA is sending her a framed certificate and a “doggie bag” containing a blanket, an eco-friendly squeaky toy, a Nylabone, and a box of vegan dog treats. PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—offers tips for caring for animal companions on its website.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.