Amazing! Manatee Stood Guard Over Dog Stuck in a River Until Help Arrived!

One dog who became stranded in the Hillsborough River in Tampa, Florida had quite the unusual guardian angel – a manatee.

The poor dog, named White Boy, got caught in the river. When neighbors heard noise overnight, they realized an animal was in trouble, so they called for help. But before humans came to the scene, a manatee was keeping close watch over the distressed dog. You can see the animal faintly in this photo. We wonder if the manatee knew the dog was in trouble and was there for companionship; it’s a definite possibility! We’ve seen inter-species animals help each other and become friends before.

An awesome, kindhearted Marine Patrol Officer named Randy Lopez came to the rescue. He used an extension ladder to climb into the river and hoist White Boy up to safe ground.

White Boy suffered bug bites and bloody paws, but overall, he was in good health when rescuers found him.

Here is White Boy after he was reunited with his family. We are so glad this pooch is back with his loving guardians. He will probably be staying far away from water from now on.

Images’ source: Tampa Police Department Facebook