Scientists believe rare rescue is a sign that the fearsome reptiles may be capable of compassion
In an apparent example of interspecies compassion, a group of crocodiles appeared to usher a dog to safety after it fell into a dangerous river.
The dog, believed to be a stray, was being chased by a pack of other feral canines when it jumped into the River Savirtri in India out of harm’s way, or so it thought.
But the river was infested by local mugger crocodiles, and three of them were floating near the stray.
This should have been the end of the helpless pup, with the crocs being “well within the striking range,” according to a report published by scientists in the Journal of Threatening Taxa.
However, the crocodiles appeared to usher the dog back to safety on the shore.
“These crocodiles were actually touching the dog with their snouts and nudging it to move further for a safe ascent on the bank and eventually escape,” the researchers wrote.
“The muggers were well within the striking range and could have easily devoured the dog, yet none of them attacked and instead chose to nudge it towards the bank, implying that the hunger drive was absent.”
The researchers say that the crocodiles were “docile”. Adult male mugger crocs can reach 18 feet long and weigh up to 1,000 pounds, according to the Wildlife Institute of India.
The researchers said they believe that the pup rescue could be a sign of the crocs having emotional intelligence.
“The curious case of a dog ‘rescued’ by the group of crocodiles reported here seems more on lines of empathy than altruistic behaviour,” the scientists said.
Aside from the muggers’ apparent alliance with stray dogs, scientists discovered another wholesome obsession that the crocs appeared to have: marigold flowers.
Crocodiles are often seen floating or laying in marigolds, often keeping “physical contact” with the yellow flowers, which the researchers note have compounds that can protect skin from fungi and bacteria.
The Savitri River is polluted with sewage and other harmful ingredients, so this may be why they like to have contact with the petals.
Endearing Dedication: Pup Remains Loyal on Porch Despite Desertion, Inspiring Empathy and Deepening Family Bonds
Few things are as unjust as when a dog ends up in the care of irresponsible and selfish owners. Dogs shower their families with unconditional love, and it’s truly disheartening when this affection is met with selfishness and indifference.
In this heartrending tale, a beautiful pup named Cupid experienced heartbreak when his family decided to relocate and left him behind. Cupid watched in confusion as his beloved family packed their belongings, loaded their car, and drove away, leaving him behind without an explanation.
All he knew was that this place had been his home, and perhaps, if he waited patiently, his family would return. Fortunately, a compassionate neighbor took notice and contacted Janine Guido, the founder of Speranza Animal Rescue, after seeing Cupid sleeping alone on the porch.
“All I was told was that his owners moved out and left him behind,” Guido recounted. She tried approaching Cupid, but he retreated to his safe haven. She watched as he desperately jumped and scratched at the front door, almost pleading to be let back inside. Witnessing this broke Guido’s heart, and she felt a deep urge to help him.
Guido attempted to offer food to gain Cupid’s trust, but he only ran away. After a 30-minute chase, Guido found the right words to calm him down and reassure him. It may sound strange, but Guido swears that Cupid understood her. Finally, he allowed her to leash him.
“On the ride home, she continued to tell him what was happening, as he understood her,” the story unfolds. “He has been nothing but the sweetest gentleman since coming to the rescue. You can tell he’s still really confused. But he is happy to meet everyone with a wagging tail.”
In due time, Cupid will be ready to embark on the search for a forever family. While it’s disheartening to think about people abandoning their pets, it’s heartwarming to know that there are dedicated individuals like Guido working tirelessly to ensure these mistreated animals receive the love and care they deserve.
Once Cupid finds his forever family, he’ll be in the company of those who truly appreciate and reciprocate his affection.
If you ever come across a situation like this, providing a dog with food, water, and temporary shelter while seeking professional help is a compassionate gesture. However, it’s crucial to involve experts who can secure the dog’s long-term well-being and determine the best course of action.
Remember, every animal deserves love, care, and a safe environment. By reaching out to the appropriate authorities, you can play a vital role in ensuring that abandoned dogs receive the care and compassion they require and, hopefully, find a loving forever home where they’ll never face abandonment again.
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