A dog who helped save a woman from a burning house has been honoured for his heroics. Rex, an Alaskian Malamute German Sheppard cross from Aberdeen, Sask., was inducted Tuesday morning into the Purina Animal Hall of Fame.
The fire happened in December 2015. Noreen Lucas had travelled from Edmonton to Aberdeen to spend the Christmas holidays with her son and his family.
During her visit, Lucas developed pneumonia. She stayed at her son’s home Christmas Eve while the family went to Saskatoon for a holiday dinner.
She took a sleeping pill and when the medication set in, fell into a heavy sleep.
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Lucas said she awoke briefly because Rex was barking, which was unusual as he seldom barks, but quickly fell back asleep.
Rex continued to bark and starting tugging on her pant leg. He then pulled her off the couch and began dragging her across the floor towards the front door.
Lucas said she woke again to find a fire raging in the home.
She was able to get out safely, along with Rex, and called her son.
By the time firefighters arrived, the house was engulfed in flame and was a total loss.
Melissa Eckersley, the Purina Animal Hall of Fame ambassador, said Rex’s story highlights the lengths some animals will go to protect people, including stepping out of character.
“Each year we receive and uncover countless stories of remarkable acts of animals saving human lives,” said Eckersley.
“We feel very privileged to honour these extraordinary animals and share their stories with all Canadians.”
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