Four years ago, the Johnson family welcomed a determined little puppy named Sadie into their home. She had been abandoned with her siblings at a Texas gas station, but life turned around when she was adopted.
With her new beginning, Sadie quickly embraced a very important role in the household: guardian of the backyard.
Taking Her Duty To Heart
Sadie doesn’t see herself as just another playful dog. While she enjoys fun and affection, she also takes her role as protector very seriously. Rabbits, squirrels, and even bullfrogs know they are always under her watch.
“She never actually tries to hurt them. If she gets close enough, which is rare, she pounces with her paws instead of biting. I’m quite confident she wouldn’t hurt them, and honestly, the critters don’t seem all that worried about it,” Mike Johnson, Sadie’s dad, told The Dodo.
It is clear that Sadie is more focused on the thrill of the chase than the catch itself, but that does not lessen her sense of responsibility.
Not long ago, she spotted a small trespasser by the fence. Instead of charging after it with her usual enthusiasm, Sadie chose a different approach. She went into stealth mode, ready for a careful pursuit. This time, though, she wasn’t alone.
Clutched gently in her mouth was her most cherished stuffed toy, one of the first gifts she ever received when she joined the family.
“The stuffed animal was among the toys we bought when we first adopted her, hoping to help her feel a bit less alone after leaving her litter for the first time,” Mike explained.
Even after years, Sadie continues to keep the toy close. Whether she is lounging in the house or exploring the yard, her sidekick rarely leaves her sight.
A Sidekick On Patrol
When she noticed the squirrel, Sadie crept forward slowly, carrying her companion as though the mission required teamwork.
The squirrel, however, was not easily intimidated. Instead of darting away, it seemed to wait, almost teasing her.
“Our squirrels—we call them Chester and Lester—seemingly became less afraid of Sadie. They now allow her to get quite close before they take off,” Mike said.
Just as she prepared to pounce, Chester dashed away at the last second. Sadie froze, watching as her opponent disappeared.
While she may not have caught the intruder, she viewed the chase as a success. Her territory was safe again, and her job was done.
At the end of the day, Sadie is far more than a guard dog. She is a beloved companion, always eager to fulfill her role while bringing joy to her family. The backyard will never be entirely free of visitors, but that only adds to the fun of her patrols.
“She takes her job seriously, even if the squirrels don’t,” Mike said with a laugh.
With her loyal stuffed friend always close at hand, Sadie remains a fearless and determined protector. For her, every chase is a mission worth taking on.