A black Labrador retriever, named Beauty, is lucky to be alive after being attacked last week by a large alligator in Panama City Beach, Florida. Beauty’s feathered friends, Cress, Downey, and Dot, were by the bank of Lake Powell, where the gator was lurking.

Of course, the faithful dog was close behind. Beauty’s owner, Misti Roberts, told WJHG News, about her pets’ unlikely bond:

“She is just super sweet to them, it’s not like you would think with a duck and dog.”

But on this day, when Roberts called for Beauty, it was quickly apparent that something was wrong; she said:

“And then I realized she couldn’t get up the stairs, so I ran down and then obviously there was just blood everywhere and I realized she had been hurt.”

Beauty was rushed to VetsPets, where Dr. Gerrie Barr sprang into action to assess her injuries. Dr. Barr discovered that Beauty’s leg was fractured, and he determined that she needed to have surgery. Days ago, Roberts said that Beauty made it through the “difficult, long” surgery, and she is expected to be able to return home in a few days.

She also commended her pup for saving the ducks:

“This is our precious dog, Beauty! She was attacked by an alligator Monday while trying to protect our pet ducks. It was a terrifying experience.”

Beauty’s veterinarian acknowledged the dog’s heroics as well, saying:

“They are her buddies, there is no question about that. Give her credit for saving their lives.”

Good job Beauty!

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