A dog in Nipigon, Ontario, has earned recognition for her bravery in defending her family from a black bear last autumn. Chloe, a mixed-breed medium-sized dog, has been honored with a spot in the Purina Animal Hall of Fame. This prestigious award acknowledges pets for their exceptional courage and unwavering dedication in safeguarding their owners during life-threatening situations.
Colette Shwetz, who, along with her husband Joe, is the proud owner of Chloe, shared that they rescued her in May 2019 when she was around six months old. Describing Chloe as a rescue dog with a gentle demeanor, Colette mentioned that Chloe exudes love and possesses an old soul.
The remarkable incident occurred on the night of September 16, 2025, when Chloe bravely confronted a bear that had followed her back into the house after being let out into the yard. Joe Shwetz, awakened by Chloe’s barking, found her gripping the bear’s hind leg, attempting to guide it out of the kitchen.
With Chloe’s protective stance, the trio managed to relocate the bear from the kitchen to a nearby hallway before it proceeded to the basement. Chloe valiantly stood her ground, barking and deterring the bear until the authorities arrived and safely dealt with the intruder.
Following the encounter, all three individuals, including Chloe, required medical attention for injuries sustained during the incident. Despite facing a severe bite, Chloe demonstrated resilience and recovered well. In recognition of her heroic actions, Chloe was treated to a steak dinner by her grateful owners.
Purina, in a press release, highlighted the establishment of the Animal Hall of Fame in 1968, celebrating 198 exceptional animals to date for their acts of courage and loyalty that have saved lives across Canada. Chloe joins the ranks of illustrious animals, including Murph, an Australian Blue Merle Sheepdog from Kenora, who was inducted in 1984 for alerting her owners to a fire in their apartment building, enabling the safe evacuation of all residents.