What images appear in your mind when someone says Siberia?
Some may think of lush forests and mountains, but many think of harsh winters and a snow-covered, barren landscape.
It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop to minus 38 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. Temperatures hover below zero well into April.
The case of a mother who abandoned her two-year-old son in sub-zero temperatures in Siberia sent shock waves around the world.
His survival is a miracle and it’s all thanks to an unlikely hero.
The boy was found by neighbors on an unheated porch that was attached to a house in a village in the Altai region of southern Siberia.
Neighbors couldn’t believe he was still alive, but it was all thanks to a dog who had kept the child warm for two days until help arrived.
The dog is described as a ‘hero’ and ‘savior’, by local officials, writes The Siberian Times.
The boy is recovering in hospital. The mother faces a potential jail sentence and losing the rights to raise her child, according to The Siberian Times.
Risk their lives to protect humans
If it wasn’t for the incredible care that this dog showed, we could have a completely different ending to this story. But time and again, dogs prove their loyalty and risk their lives to protect us humans.
It’s not the first time a dog has ensured the survival of a child, against all odds. Four years ago, 3-year-old Karina Chikitova went missing from her home in a remote village in Siberia.
The girl’s mother thought she had followed her father to a neighboring village. It was three days before she realized she was missing.
The chances that the child was still alive was slim – but then an unlikely hero appeared.
Survived on wild berries and river water
Her dog returned to the family home, 11 days after she went missing and led the family to her, writes the Siberian Times.
The brave toddler had survived by eating wild berries and drinking river water before her dog finally left her side to find help, leading rescuers to her location.
The smart dog led the way for the rescue workers, who eventually found the girl. An incredible relief for her parents!
She had no major injuries, other than some scratches on her feet.
The dog had protected her at night and helped the girl stay safe – to then eventually leave her side to get the help she so desperately needed.
Both children are alive today – thanks to their faithful four-legged friends. Dogs are truly amazing!
Do you have a wonderful story about man’s best friend?
Leave your thoughts in the comments below and share this story with your friends so that more people can celebrate how great dogs are.
