Dogs give themselves to us without reserve, but not all humans are willing to do the same for them.
But a police officer in Deer Park, Texas has been hailed as a hero by many after an incident that was captured on video.
Officer Joel Nitchman put his own life at risk to save his K9 partner, a dog named Roni.
The incident happened on a winter day when a tornado hit the area causing Roni to become trapped inside a patrol car.
But despite the dangerous conditions, Officer Nitchman showed bravery and heroism, rushing to the rescue of his beloved K9 partner.
Footage showed the tornado beating down on the squad car as he rescued his partner.
“I’ll never forget the noise. That’s when I knew this was a big tornado,” recalled Nitchman to KHOU 11.
The winds had started to pick up on Jan. 24, right after the pair returned to the police station from training.
“The thought of debris or the car flipping over — I couldn’t, couldn’t do that to him, I couldn’t have him out there during that,” said Nitchman. “He’s put himself in harm’s way for me before.”
Nitchman went on to say how debris was hitting his face and how he struggled to get the door to the squad car open because of the high winds.
“I could barely open his door. When I did, he’s a smart dog. He saw what was going on outside, and he was like, ‘I’m not coming out.’”
Roni is a good, strong boy!
Deer Park is a city located just west of Houston.
“I’m like coaxing him: come on buddy. Let’s go,” Nitchman told KHOU11. “I love that dog. He’s my hip attachment almost every day of the week. He’s a part of our family. You can’t leave a loved one like that. There’s no way I was going to leave him like that.”
Where many others would have just run for shelter, Nitchman’s deep devotion to his duty and the strong bond he shared with Roni, had him braving the storm out of love for his pal.
Best friends forever that’s for sure!
And yes, he did manage to get Roni out, bringing the dog to a safer place.
It is sweeter to brave a storm with someone you love, and who loves you back unconditionally.
Many viewers left positive comments.
@jakeberg6758 said,
“AWESOME!!!!! That dog wouldn’t hesitate to give his life for that officer, love to see the LOVE returned. That’s the kind of officer you pray comes if you or your family ever needs help.”
@carolinagirl7596 commented,
“What a great guy. He and his K-9 are a great team. I’m thankful that he went out there to save his partner. Says a lot about his love for the dog and his character.”
We couldn’t agree more!
The tornado tore through the Texas town, destroying buildings and throwing debris around, making the outdoors a very hostile environment.
But Nitchman was way tougher than any storm that day.
And Roni had complete trust in his partner too!
Check out the intense rescue footage below!
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