One Strange Morning
Back when Catherine Svilicic chose to adopt the rescue Doberman, she did not expect anything but a loving pet. Of course, she envisioned the dog bonding with her baby daughter and becoming inseparable. Once things unexpectedly changed in her own backyard, she was shocked!
Unusual Behavior
Even though she knew rescues come from abuse or neglect and that can affect their behavior, she took a chance. I guess that’s what rescue is all about…taking a chance on a poor animal so maybe the animal will live a better life.
Adopting A Rescue
While many people prefer to buy a new dog from a breeder, another option is to adopt a rescue dog. There are so many dogs waiting to be rescued and have a family to call their own. Adopting is a great way to help improve the life of a rescue pup.
Adding To The Family
Just as many families do at a point, the Svilicics chose to add a new family member by adopting a pet. Shortly after her daughter Charlotte’s birth, Catherine decided she wanted a close bond with a dog for Charlotte.
Making The Big Decision
The family knew they wanted perform a good deed. By rescuing, they were saving a dog. As they already had a healthy child, they felt fortunate enough to save another life.
Calling the Shelter
Thus, Catherine called the dog shelter close by to inquire about adoption. After hearing about the available animals, she chose a Doberman Pinscher. Once they signed adoption papers, they named the dog Khan.
Some Reservations
Catherine decided to adopt to add a protector to the family. Perhaps, the idea of rescue did give her a bit of reservations as she signed the papers for adoption. Yet, she put her faith in the dog.
A Special Bond
There’s nothing quite like the bond between dogs and humans. This is especially the case when a dog is brought into a young child’s life, as the child grows up with a companion, friend, and protector.
Lessons From Pet Dogs
Catherine was hopeful this would provide valuable lessons for her baby, such as sharing, learning to love and responsibility to care for animals. She was looking forward to having the dog join the family.
Falling In Love
Despite hearing of Khan’s rough background, Catherine immediately loved the dog. She was overjoyed to bring this special dog back to her family. Of course, she realized there were risks involved.
Rationalizing Risks
Well, the obvious risks fromm bringing a large, potentially dangerous canine to her young baby, Catherine pushed them aside. If she had not adopted Khan, he would have been put down just a week later. So, this was his new life and second chance, and the family was hoping for the best.
Seemingly Normal Day
Everything began smoothly. They trained Khan during the first few days. However, everything changed on that fourth day when the dog acted completely out of character.
Usual Play
The fateful day began with the usual playtime outside. Although baby Charlotte had her parents watching from a distance, they did not notice anything out of the ordinary. Charlotte and the new dog had been making a habit of playing out back like this. However, things were different this day.
Trouble In The Yard
So what was actually happening out there? The two were not being loud or crazy. They began running through the backyard grass together. That was until Khan’s temperament seemed to change dramatically.
Wild Actions During Playtime
Again, Catherine watched the two closely, feeling reassured in her decision to adopt Khan. Surprisingly, things had changed within an instant!
Out Of Character
Khan began acting wildly aggressive. This was not the normal play between the two. Something was terribly wrong here. He stopped the play and grabbed the baby.
Khan Acting Wild
Mouth agape, Catherine watched in complete and utter shock. She did not understand what set Khan off and how he could suddenly, become this way. She knew her child could never provoke the animal. Could those fearful people who warned her about his breed be right? Or was it his past triggering this behavior?
Unbelievable Actions
She watched as Khan tossed Charlotte across their lawn! What happened next alarmed Catherine and everyone present. No one could believe what they saw! Meanwhile her baby seemed to be unaffected as she continued to wander through the grass.
Just The Beginning
Why was Khan acting as though an innocent child was a threat? Catherine watched him drag her child, hoping he would stop. Sadly, it seemed Catherine needed to immediately intervene because this was only the beginning…
More Aggression
In what appeared at first to be a fit of rage, the dog tried a different technique. This is when things got out of hand. He tightly clenched his jaws into her diaper to toss her back and forth.
Shock And Devastation
Catherine was shocked to see Khan’s act so out of character and aggressive, she never thought he would display this behavior, let alone threaten her child. This left Catherine completely devastated.
Lurking Suspicions
Of course, she was angry with Khan for lashing out on her innocent 17 month-old. However, something deep down told Catherine there was more to this than what they were seeing. Little did she know, these suspicions would turn out to be true.
Frozen In Horror
Initially, as playtime turned violent, Catherine was paralyzed. She was frozen in the kitchen while she watched it all unfold. Maybe it was the shock that made this feel nightmare-like and not reality.
Family Dog Withholds Baby, Then Mom Sees Surprising Reason Why
Published on August 9, 2020
Denial Of Sorts
That’s when she told herself there was more to this, but her baby was still in great danger. Catherine was paralyzed in a denial of sorts. This could not be real. She desperately hoped she had not brought such a threat into her own house.
Like A Rag Doll
Catherine noted that her baby seemed a target once the actions had suddenly become extreme. That moment we mentioned when the dog sunk his teeth into Charlotte’s diaper and used his strength to toss her like what witnesses describe, “a rag doll.” How terrifying!
Surprisingly Calm
Again, the family was lucky those teeth did not go near her skin and especially face. Catherine could not imagine the guilt she would feel if her baby needed cosmetic surgery all because of a rescue they took in. However, her baby did not need cosmetic surgery and was actually quite calm. Perhaps, the baby understood something about Khan’s intentions.
Reactions
Without any tears, Charlotte appeared almost shell shocked herself. Her mother needed to act fast and grab her distressed child. Something happened to Khan next that confused the whole family.
Incredible Moment
That’s right, the baby did not even shed a tear! While the baby stayed calm, others could not help but panic. Even Charlotte’s mother said, “Had I not seen it with my very own eyes, I’d never have believed it.” Therefore, with urgency, she ran to Charlotte and carried her to safety. While Catherine brought her baby to shelter, Khan barked frantically and then collapsed.
More To The Story
Now, Catherine needed to make sense of her suspicions and the situation. Perhaps, this new rescue was trying to protect her baby. He continued to whimper. What was happening?
Not Quite Over
Something strange was happening. He did not just collapse for nothing. The dog began crying. No one understood what was going on!
Emergency Situation
Quickly, Catherine scanned her daughter’s body for any bruises or cuts. Miraculously, her child was unharmed! Of course, Catherine was a lot more upset than her undisturbed baby. Though Charlotte was unscathed, Khan was obviously not doing well.
Panic Mode
The dog continued crying and then fell lifeless. Now this sent Catherine into panic mode. She focused on the dog, watching his dying eyes and realized he had been protecting her child. However, time was of the essence, and it was clear he needed emergency care.
Heroic Act
Finally, the family realized Khan was the hero not a viscous assailant. Turns out, Khan was protecting Charlotte from a poisonous, dangerous creature. Even after living with the family for a mere four days, he really became the protector of the baby that Catherine had hoped.
Desperate Times
As Khan’s condition worsened, Catherine was desperate to save this amazing pet. She recognized the immense sacrifice Khan made for her daughter. The family worried it could be too late for their new pet and savior.
Paralyzing Poison
Due to the poisonous venom, Khan was sent into immediate paralysis. Even though the dog was a tough breed and strong young dog, he was not able to handle this powerful venom. Signing those adoption papers, Catherine committed to caring for Khan. He needed her now more than ever. She knew there were only a select number of people able to save him in time.
Determined To Save Khan
With the rest of the family watching in shock, Catherine grabbed the lifeless dog. She carried him away as another family member took baby Charlotte. As Catherine held Khan in her arms, Khan’s tongue hung out of his mouth and he gasped for air. Despite someone insisting it was far too late for Khan, Catherine did not give up.
Every Minute Counted
In hindsight, if the family waited any longer, it would have been all too obvious there was no hope for Khan. However, seeing him gasp for air still, Catherine had hope. She mustered all her strength to bring the large Doberman to her car and put him in the front. As she sped for the vet, she could hear his breathing slow. Through the panic, she maintained hope, but the following hours would determine whether he could survive.
Speeding For Life
As Catherine pressed on the pedal, she glanced over at her new dog. She hoped she could live up to her promise to give this rescue a new life. Again, she thought how he sacrificed himself for her sweet baby. These racing thoughts and the worry of life or death led to a bit of slightly reckless driving. Later on, Catherine commented, “I never knew I was able to drive this well. I guess adrenaline does its thing.”
Urgent Medical Care
After her somewhat reckless time on the road, they reached the vet. Catherine jumped out and ran in with Khan. There was no time for signing in or waiting in this situation. Catherine yelled for anti-venom and help for Khan. She was in the right place. Sure enough, vets ran over and rushed Khan away. It was obvious the dog was in critical condition, and they knew removing the toxins from Khan’s body was top priority.
Motherly Love
Catherine realized she acted with pure adrenaline. She looked back on her actions saying, “If you asked me to carry his weight right now, I don’t think I’d be able to do it.” Perhaps, it was her motherly instincts helping her protect her new family member. After just four days, Khan truly became one with the Svilcics and even saved baby Charlotte from a poisonous creature.
Hoping For The Best
From Khan’s eyes, Catherine saw all she needed. It was clear that he wanted to protect the young baby because of his unconditional love. He solidified his place in the family. However, now it was Catherine’s turn to return the favor. Charlotte was safe, so Catherine could fully devote her attention to Khan. When the vets took over, Catherine cried and felt totally helpless so she prayed for his recovery.
Finding Out About Khan
Now, Catherine had to find patience within herself as the vets did all they could. Of course, knowing experts were caring for Khan did not stop her from worrying. There was a sickness in the pit of her stomach as she hoped she wouldn’t lose a new member of the family. The vets returned to a pacing Catherine to update her on Khan. Immediately, Catherine ran to the vets with her endless questions.
Doctor’s Uncertainty
Sadly, all the vet could say was they were uncertain if Khan could survive this. He responded to Catherine with, “We don’t know yet, madam. We did what we could, but now his body has to fight the poison. The anti-venom will certainly help, but we don’t know to what extent. It’s best that you come back tomorrow morning.” Hearing this, her heart sank because she hoped for a little more positive news. Still, she hung onto hope for his survival.
Suffering Insomnia
As Catherine left the vet, she couldn’t get her mind off of the poor dog. She continued to replay the day’s events in her head. Everything was racing in her mind constantly, and she could not even sleep. Thus, she watched Charlotte deep in slumber, never imagining her day would have turned out this way. She was overwhelmed with gratitude that her child was safe and sound. However, a deep wave of guilt washed over her that she couldn’t have done more to save her dog from this deadly attack.
Hearing The News
As she anxiously waited for news, she replayed it all and considered every possible outcome from tragic to joyful. In the wake of such a dramatic incident, she couldn’t stop her racing thoughts. With her patience running low, she approached the receptionist to ask when any news could be expected. Apparently, they had results and would finally speak with her.
Deadly Backyard Creature
Before even telling her Khan’s current state, the vets told Catherine about the deadly creature. This creature had been living in Catherine’s very own backyard without her knowledge. She then pictured how things could have been different if this deadly animal tragically caught one of her kids. Then, she would currently be sitting in an emergency room and not at the vet’s clinic. However, she could not even fathom the reality of those scenarios.
Baby’s Protector
It was Khan’s animal instincts that helped him act quickly and save Charlotte from the deadly Mulga! Although many view Dobermans as attack dogs, clearly, they are loyal to the death for their owners. Khan guarded the baby while risking his life the entire time, demonstrating his unconditional love. Perhaps, it was the dog’s way of repaying the favor to his family who saved his life.
Chance Of Survival
The heroic Khan was at great risk for not surviving this powerful venom. The entire family hoped to welcome him home safely, but things were not looking great. It was unimaginable for family members to think about how Charlotte could have been the one in critical condition that afternoon. In honor of his bravery, the family felt he deserved to fight this and survive himself. But what would the waiting reveal?
Waiting For The Doctors
As they waited, the Svilicics just hoped and prayed for a positive outcome. The truth is that Khan was in the hands of vets. The vets were unremittingly working on removing all the snake venom from the body. Catherine reflected on this heroism, “He saved her life by risking his own. From now on, he’s Khan the Wonder Dog.” They anxiously waited for news on this Wonder Dog. Next, Catherine finally spoke on the phone with the vet to hear the news.
Family Dog Withholds Baby, Then Mom Sees Surprising Reason Why
Published on August 9, 2020
The Dog’s Fate
Alas, it was time to hear about the dog after what felt like centuries of waiting. As dog lovers know all too well, there is nothing like the love of your pet dog. Even though they only had Khan for four short days, in that time he miraciously saved their child’s life. Obviously, this elevated his status in the family. The vet had given the dog anti-venom. This shot was meant to revive him from the snake bite trauma. Now, they were waiting to see its affect on the animal.
A Better Life
Upon the adoption, the family hoped to give a rescue another chance at life. When the Svillcic family picked up Khan, the shelter told Catherine about Khan’s background. Apparently, he was previously abused. Although this loving family took him in, poor Khan did not even enjoy much time with him before getting bit by a snake in his heroic act. The family desperately wanted to bring him home and make up for all his past suffering with love and kindness.
Almost Put Down
In fact, if the family did not take Khan in, he was going to be put down. When he had arrived to the dog shelter he was in horrible shape. There were very obvious signs of abuse. Catherine spoke about his condition, “When Kerry Kinder (Doberinling Boarding Kennels owner) rescued him, he was starving, had broken ribs and had been beaten – he was an abused dog…It was borderline on whether or not he should be put down because he was in such a bad way.”
Further Insight
Reflecting on the tough background of abuse, Catherine gained insight on why Khan acted the way he did to her child. She explained, “He was starving for attention and wanted to be loved because he came from an abused home, so I’m not surprised about what he has done at his new home.” Thinking about the horrific past, Catherine knew she had to stay determined and on top of this poor animal’s recovery. Catherine needed to talk to the vet.
The Big News
The vet kept Catherine on the phone line while speaking with her team. They were currently trying to save Khan. As she held the phone, eagerly waiting, Catherine just wanted to hear something positive to cling on to! At last, the vet returned and had the wonderful news to share!
Sigh Of Relief
The vet shared that Khan was slowly getting stronger. He was still incredibly weak, nonetheless but was making progress and the snake’s venom had been removed. Catherine shed a tear of relief, but that wasn’t the last piece of news.
W
What Next?
Catherine needed to have confirmation whether Khan would make a full recovery and get back to the dog they brought home from the shelter. It was not enough to hear he was doing okay. When could she tell her family they would have Khan again, if they could even promise her that?
what Next?
Catherine needed to have confirmation whether Khan would make a full recovery and get back to the dog they brought home from the shelter. It was not enough to hear he was doing okay. When could she tell her family they would have Khan again, if they could even promise her that?
Expected Recovery
Finally, the vet gave her the confirmation she craved. Yes, Khan would be just fine. Now, Catherine at last felt she had an opportunity to make it up to this miaraculous dog who actually saved her daughter.
According To Experts
Thanks to a reptile expert, we know what could have been. So, yes, Khan was able to pull through and survive the attack. However, that was because the snake did not inject enough venom to instantly kill the Doberman. Though, if the snake somehow had gotten a bit of a tighter grip, this story could have ended a lot more tragically. So what was next for Catherine and Khan?
Back To The Vet
Catherine’s dedication was unwavering. She went into the vet yet again so she could hear more about Khan’s condition and road to recovery. Again, she had to remain patient until hearing the answers she needed most.
Amazing Progress
It was more than just good news at the vet. Actually, Khan impressed even the vets with his rapid recovery and progress. The whole family could not wait to be reunited once again with this amazing and heroic animal!
Moving On
At last, this family would get their new dog back and move past the tragic day. They could not be more excited to be able to show this dog the love it deserved. Catherine made herself a special promise.
Fortunate Family
Finally, the family could be reunited! Yet, Catherine was determined to protect this amazing animal as if it were her own child. How could she not, after it saved her own flesh and blood? She felt she could never repay Khan for that amazing deed. Now, Khan shared a bond with the family that could never be broken. As you can see even years later a not so baby Charlotte remains close with Khan. What about the dangerous creature though?
The Deadly Creature
What in the name was the creature responsible for all this? Well, it turned out the deadly animal was a snake. Though, it was not your average garden snake obviously. This was a Mulga. What is that?
Mulga
Well, if you never heard of a Mulga, that’s okay, but you should know it’s incredibly venomous. Actually, it’s one of the most deadly snakes in Australia. No one spotted this deadly snake slithering through the grass but Khan.
Its Powerful Attack
As one of the planet’s most deadly snakes, it is definitely something to be feared. The reason it is so feared is its venom. In fact, the venom has the power to kill an adult within just minutes.
Easy Target
Thus, it was lucky Khan caught the snake. The baby Charlotte made an easy target for the snake. As a small baby, she would have slim to no chances of survival against the powerful venom. So Khan did really save that baby’s life.
