Most rescue dogs are claimed from pet shelters, but Richard Wilbanks rescued his puppy from the jaws of an alligator. Wilbanks was out on a walk with Gunner when he heard a brief yelp of distress. Wilbanks recalled, “I looked around and saw the alligator out swimming in the pond with him. I just wasn't going to let him have my puppy for breakfast.”

Surveillance footage from the Florida Wildlife Federation showed Wilbanks in action as he ran into the pond to get his dog back, prying the jaws of the gator loose. In honor of the bravery displayed by his owner, Gunner was selected to take part in an educational initiative called Deputy Dogs, Pets on Patrol. According to a program representative, Carmine Dellaquilla, Gunnar will assist in helping children throughout Lee County avoid danger. She said, “School bus safety, safety as it relates to the water. Alligators in the pond, toads, cane toads. Any types of danger that children face every day.”

Possible Preaching Angle:

The God who watches over all creation has his watchful eye on you and will not let you be devoured by evildoers. Young David said, “The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Sam. 17:37).