A faithful black Lab has risen to hero status, and the reasons are crystal clear.

This week, the Lab demonstrated extraordinary devotion and bravery in safeguarding a young boy during a time of dire need.

As recounted by the New Jersey State Police, a 4-year-old boy vanished one Wednesday evening after wandering off from his residence in Buena Vista Township. The area, abundant with dense woods and potential hazards for a preschooler, could have been treacherous. However, the child was not alone in his journey.

Accompanying the boy on his unplanned adventure was the family’s loyal Lab, who made the choice to stick close to the child as he strayed further from home.

Thankfully, state troopers, alongside the boy’s mother, succeeded in locating them approximately an hour later. The body camera footage captured during the dramatic rescue vividly portrays the Lab’s unwavering commitment to the boy’s safety, never once leaving his side.

Troopers Rescue Missing Child in the Woods

Last night, troopers from Buena Vista Station responded to the report of a missing child in Buena Vista Twp., Atlantic County.

A 4-year-old boy and his black Labrador had wandered away from his house.

Check out the rescue. pic.twitter.com/wUMrWYzuYQ

— NJSP – New Jersey State Police (@NJSP) March 30, 2023