Bored Panda works better on our iPhone app
Continue in app Continue in browser

BoredPanda Add post form topAdd Post Search
Tooltip close

The Bored Panda iOS app is live! Fight boredom with iPhones and iPads here.

Brave Dog Gets Shot While Protecting His 16-Year-Old Owner From Armed Intruders
User submission
20.3K
27.7K

Brave Dog Gets Shot While Protecting His 16-Year-Old Owner From Armed Intruders

ADVERTISEMENT

Dog is a man‘s best friend, and a 2-year-old German shepherd Rex just proved this saying right.

When on February 21st armed intruders invaded 16-year-old Javier Mercado‘s house, he was home alone with Rex. It all happened just after noon in Des Moines, USA – Javier heard a noise and looked through a window where he saw a car he didn’t recognize. “I then heard the sliding door break, and it is made out of just glass so it shattered really loud,” said Mercado. “My dog ran downstairs, and it just started barking and barking. I heard one guy scream, ‘the dog bit me, get the dog.'”

As soon as this happened, Javier dialed 911 and went into the closet. “Rex stormed back to the upstairs floor all beat up and bloody,” writes Javier’s aunt on GoFund. “Soon, the burglars proceeded to the upstairs floor and trashed all the bedrooms. As they entered the room where Javier was hiding in the closet, Rex came out with the little strength he had left in him and threw himself at them as he knew my nephew was in danger.” Sadly, they shot the dog four times and he gave up his battle.

By the time police arrived, intruders were already gone. After spending nearly an hour in the closet, Javier felt it’s finally safe to come out. He then received a call telling him that his dog Rex is still alive. However, he was dangerously injured, with gunshot wounds in his neck and legs that required surgery.

The joy that the dog survived, however, was followed by the worry that they don’t have the money to pay for Rex’s medical bills. It didn’t take long for family, friends, and the community to open a fundraiser for Rex, who is now called The Hero Dog. On Friday, Rex successfully overcame his first surgery. Let’s hope this hero dog will get better as soon as possible!

ADVERTISEMENT

More info: Facebook

This is Javier Mercado and his faithful German shepherd Rex, who saved his owner’s life

When last Wednesday armed intruders invaded Javier’s house, he was home alone with Rex

“I heard the sliding door break,” said Mercado. “My dog ran downstairs, and started barking and barking. I heard one guy scream, ‘the dog bit me, get the dog'”

As soon as this happened, Javier dialed 911 and went into the closet

Rex ran back upstairs all beat up and bloody. Soon, the burglars proceeded to the upstairs floor, too

As they entered the room where Javier was hiding in the closet, Rex came out with the little strength he had left in him and threw himself at them

ADVERTISEMENT

Sadly, they shot the dog four times and he gave up his battle

By the time police arrived, intruders were already gone

ADVERTISEMENT

After spending nearly an hour in the closet, Javier felt it’s finally safe to come out. He then received a call telling him that his dog Rex is still alive

Javier believes that if it wasn’t for this dog, he wouldn’t be able to tell this story today

ADVERTISEMENT

28Kviews

Share on Facebook
You May Like
Popular on Bored Panda
Share your thoughts
Add photo comments
POST
shrutinaik797 avatar
Shruti Naik
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is heartbreaking! I'm glad he's alive and recovering now! He deserves all the treats and cuddles in the world for his bravery! Good Boy Rex!

diresilverwolf avatar
BREAK YOUr perceptions
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

find those robbers and string them up by their fingers so they can never fire a gun again. idk what else to say but GOD BLESS DOGS!

tiffanyzhu avatar
Tiffany Zhu
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my friend has a pit bull and they are one of the nicest dogs if they are taken care of properly. It's the owner, not the dog, and if you have a pit bull that mangles kids, something must be f*****g wrong with you.

Load More Replies...
cgreenwell23 avatar
Kawaii Panda
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I usually tell people I’m more of a cat person. But seeing dogs acting like such heroes makes me want to cry. Dogs are like soldiers. Even if you weren’t blind, that dog would still lead the way through darkness and tough times

indugeorge_1 avatar
img
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why you make me cry Rex? 💗 .... Who's the world's best good boy?

charlotte_brine avatar
Charlotte Brine
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Can I just say... an hour response time from the police for an armed home invasion endangering a minor?! Wtf?

nedralynn avatar
Nedra Kastor
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What do I think..... Well first of all, I am so grateful that Rex survived, he is a very brave dog. I am grateful that Javier did not lose his best friend in such a senseless act. But I am not grateful to the police; according to the article, which by the way, was very poorly written, Javier called 911 in plenty of time for them to get to the house and catch the pieces of s**t. They dropped the ball and let thieves get away. I bet if it were their house being broken into, they would have been there in a heartbeat......

irishong2006 avatar
AmberWolf
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This poor brave bby. His owner is so lucky to have a dog like him. ε(┬┬﹏┬┬)3 glad he made it!

sky_2 avatar
Sky
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So glad the puppo and the boy was okay, German Shepard’s are the most kind and loyal dogs but if you screw with their humans, you’re in for a bad time, example. I was watching three police dogs while my cop sister was out of town and they had bonded to me quite a bit (felt safe as heck sleeping next to them at night) but one night two of my sketchy teenage neighbors began to break into my house through my back door while me and the dogs were sitting in the living room reading, those three dogs were on them so fast, they were unarmed so I wasn’t worried for the dog’s safety. These three wonderful dogs basically backed these idiot delinquent teenagers into a corner while authorities arrived. Thankfully that entire family no longer lives next to me (I think the parents were arrested for previous unrelated reasons) I still see those wonderful dogs often.

jasonh avatar
Jason H.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Damn that's an awesome story! Those idiots chose the wrong night to break into your place lol. Besides, who breaks into their neighbors house?? Pieces of s**t

Load More Replies...
jodiellis avatar
Jodi Ellis
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a beautiful story and if I was not at work, I would have tears streaming down my eyes. I just love dogs, and this is why!!

sill avatar
Sill Marien
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have been out there protecting my dog. No, seriously, I'm sure I would. I don't give a s**t about people at all, and I'm pretty sure I wouldn't sacrifice a finger for any human being, but if that's my dog you're hurting...

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad he made it, such a beautiful hero!!! That's why I love German Shepherd.

dmakombe avatar
Furious_Lover
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People are shitheads poor Rex! He loves him so much. #FriendshipGoals #RexTheBest #MansBestFriend

julielemon avatar
Julie Lemon
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so glad that Javier is safe and because of his dog's bravery he is still alive and with his loved ones. Rex sounds like a great dog and I hope he gets better soon!

marjim1982 avatar
Marylou Burke
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think rex is a great Hero. I am so glad he didn't die from his wound's. Javier is a lucky young man to have a dog that loves him so much ,he would give his own life.. That is a true hero. God bless you Rex, and feel better soon..

stanflouride avatar
Stannous Flouride
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went to GoFundMe to donate and found this: $62,221 of $10,000 goal Raised by 2,394 people in 12 days No Longer Accepting Donations I'm going to give the day's pay I had planned to donate to my local animal shelter instead.

guanzonliz avatar
Liz Llanes
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What about the SOB intruders? They should be put in a cage full of hungry tigers and then lets see what happens..get well soon Rex...God bless u and your kiddo...

sharronlparsons avatar
sharron lynn parsons
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a terrible ordeal, both the boy and his dog. It is great to know some financial help is there. However, we seldom hear of vets that offer there time for a lesser fee or free !! In some cities they make BIG BUCKS.!!!

littlegreycells avatar
Donna O
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Poor Rex :( I'm so glad he's ok! You can see from the pics what a close bond he and his owner share, I hope they have many more years together!

galkinam22 avatar
Mar1a
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Does anyone have a sharp string that I can use to slowly but painfully cut their fingers away with?

malekmzb-ii avatar
Malek MZB-II
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This makes my heart heavy. Beautiful pup, and a hero. F**k those a******s that did this. May they lose their limbs to a severe infection, and suffer from pain that can't be remedied.

mittenkg avatar
Alib
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Javier: Give this wonderful dog toys and time and kisses and hugs every day!

grasshopper1123 avatar
Just Carmen
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dogs will do anything for their people, even die for them. How many of us would do THAT for another human being, let alone a dog?! I'm thinking not many.

grasshopper1123 avatar
Just Carmen
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Forgot to add: I'm so glad Rex is still here. He is a very special puppy and I hope he has a long and happy life ahead of him.

Load More Replies...
pun-in-wunderland avatar
Pi...
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Brave Rexy! Sweet Rexy. I love you for being a dog and showing the world what loyalty is.

abdallah06apple avatar
Blue Cicada
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hopefully these stupid thugs will be caught soon, with charges of animal cruelty added to everything else!

moffettm9999 avatar
Marcy Moffett
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just love this story. I love how dogs are so loyal to the people they love even in the worst circumstances.

amandagraczyk avatar
Minnie-me
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

omg this makes me want to cry! Dogs are amazing with their unconditional love and happiness.

christianhill avatar
Jonathan Eatsalot
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

$60k raised to a goal of $10k!.................................Humans care more for their pets then other humans.

sally_lindberg avatar
Sally Lindberg
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

dogs r probably the most loyal of the animals. I know all animals if the really connect with their owner/ caretakers will defend them. I've had horses be protective of me and my children but dogs lead the animal world by far. bless that pup.

kjorn avatar
Kjorn
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

wow already 60000$ raised in 4 days! who needs gun in 'Murica when you can have a dog! Dogs can be so protectives for their owner. when i was a kid my grand parents has a German Shorthaired Pointer. that dog was so sweet so nice with us, but when my parents punished me she get mad and try to pretected me. so when i've done bad thing i stayed beside their dogs :-). nicest dog i ever be with.

dogbreath-jfti avatar
Phillip Moderow
Community Member
6 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Rex was awesome but I'm not too sure about Javier.

jesselumpkin avatar
Jesse Lumpkin
Community Member
6 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

this is why I love dogs so much more than cats. This is in my opinion so don't antagonize me but cats are just lazy a** pieces of c**p that cant do anything but eat, sleep, and c**p. Dogs on the other hand will fight with all their might to protect you. This is my message to the people who thinks its ok to harm animals: if you think its ok to do so, you have no soul and deserve to die in a fire with acid being poured on you. My point is, we don't give enough attention to animals. If we did, there wouldn't be cats and dogs on the streets lonely, scared, hungry, and defenseless against huge animals.

smoky-x avatar
Rhân
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are stories where cats were heros too. I think no matter what animal it is, there is something you can be fascinated at and many of them can be a hero.

Load More Replies...
shrutinaik797 avatar
Shruti Naik
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is heartbreaking! I'm glad he's alive and recovering now! He deserves all the treats and cuddles in the world for his bravery! Good Boy Rex!

diresilverwolf avatar
BREAK YOUr perceptions
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

find those robbers and string them up by their fingers so they can never fire a gun again. idk what else to say but GOD BLESS DOGS!

tiffanyzhu avatar
Tiffany Zhu
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my friend has a pit bull and they are one of the nicest dogs if they are taken care of properly. It's the owner, not the dog, and if you have a pit bull that mangles kids, something must be f*****g wrong with you.

Load More Replies...
cgreenwell23 avatar
Kawaii Panda
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I usually tell people I’m more of a cat person. But seeing dogs acting like such heroes makes me want to cry. Dogs are like soldiers. Even if you weren’t blind, that dog would still lead the way through darkness and tough times

indugeorge_1 avatar
img
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why you make me cry Rex? 💗 .... Who's the world's best good boy?

charlotte_brine avatar
Charlotte Brine
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Can I just say... an hour response time from the police for an armed home invasion endangering a minor?! Wtf?

nedralynn avatar
Nedra Kastor
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What do I think..... Well first of all, I am so grateful that Rex survived, he is a very brave dog. I am grateful that Javier did not lose his best friend in such a senseless act. But I am not grateful to the police; according to the article, which by the way, was very poorly written, Javier called 911 in plenty of time for them to get to the house and catch the pieces of s**t. They dropped the ball and let thieves get away. I bet if it were their house being broken into, they would have been there in a heartbeat......

irishong2006 avatar
AmberWolf
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This poor brave bby. His owner is so lucky to have a dog like him. ε(┬┬﹏┬┬)3 glad he made it!

sky_2 avatar
Sky
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So glad the puppo and the boy was okay, German Shepard’s are the most kind and loyal dogs but if you screw with their humans, you’re in for a bad time, example. I was watching three police dogs while my cop sister was out of town and they had bonded to me quite a bit (felt safe as heck sleeping next to them at night) but one night two of my sketchy teenage neighbors began to break into my house through my back door while me and the dogs were sitting in the living room reading, those three dogs were on them so fast, they were unarmed so I wasn’t worried for the dog’s safety. These three wonderful dogs basically backed these idiot delinquent teenagers into a corner while authorities arrived. Thankfully that entire family no longer lives next to me (I think the parents were arrested for previous unrelated reasons) I still see those wonderful dogs often.

jasonh avatar
Jason H.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Damn that's an awesome story! Those idiots chose the wrong night to break into your place lol. Besides, who breaks into their neighbors house?? Pieces of s**t

Load More Replies...
jodiellis avatar
Jodi Ellis
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a beautiful story and if I was not at work, I would have tears streaming down my eyes. I just love dogs, and this is why!!

sill avatar
Sill Marien
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have been out there protecting my dog. No, seriously, I'm sure I would. I don't give a s**t about people at all, and I'm pretty sure I wouldn't sacrifice a finger for any human being, but if that's my dog you're hurting...

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad he made it, such a beautiful hero!!! That's why I love German Shepherd.

dmakombe avatar
Furious_Lover
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People are shitheads poor Rex! He loves him so much. #FriendshipGoals #RexTheBest #MansBestFriend

julielemon avatar
Julie Lemon
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so glad that Javier is safe and because of his dog's bravery he is still alive and with his loved ones. Rex sounds like a great dog and I hope he gets better soon!

marjim1982 avatar
Marylou Burke
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think rex is a great Hero. I am so glad he didn't die from his wound's. Javier is a lucky young man to have a dog that loves him so much ,he would give his own life.. That is a true hero. God bless you Rex, and feel better soon..

stanflouride avatar
Stannous Flouride
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went to GoFundMe to donate and found this: $62,221 of $10,000 goal Raised by 2,394 people in 12 days No Longer Accepting Donations I'm going to give the day's pay I had planned to donate to my local animal shelter instead.

guanzonliz avatar
Liz Llanes
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What about the SOB intruders? They should be put in a cage full of hungry tigers and then lets see what happens..get well soon Rex...God bless u and your kiddo...

sharronlparsons avatar
sharron lynn parsons
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a terrible ordeal, both the boy and his dog. It is great to know some financial help is there. However, we seldom hear of vets that offer there time for a lesser fee or free !! In some cities they make BIG BUCKS.!!!

littlegreycells avatar
Donna O
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Poor Rex :( I'm so glad he's ok! You can see from the pics what a close bond he and his owner share, I hope they have many more years together!

galkinam22 avatar
Mar1a
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Does anyone have a sharp string that I can use to slowly but painfully cut their fingers away with?

malekmzb-ii avatar
Malek MZB-II
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This makes my heart heavy. Beautiful pup, and a hero. F**k those a******s that did this. May they lose their limbs to a severe infection, and suffer from pain that can't be remedied.

mittenkg avatar
Alib
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Javier: Give this wonderful dog toys and time and kisses and hugs every day!

grasshopper1123 avatar
Just Carmen
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dogs will do anything for their people, even die for them. How many of us would do THAT for another human being, let alone a dog?! I'm thinking not many.

grasshopper1123 avatar
Just Carmen
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Forgot to add: I'm so glad Rex is still here. He is a very special puppy and I hope he has a long and happy life ahead of him.

Load More Replies...
pun-in-wunderland avatar
Pi...
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Brave Rexy! Sweet Rexy. I love you for being a dog and showing the world what loyalty is.

abdallah06apple avatar
Blue Cicada
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hopefully these stupid thugs will be caught soon, with charges of animal cruelty added to everything else!

moffettm9999 avatar
Marcy Moffett
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just love this story. I love how dogs are so loyal to the people they love even in the worst circumstances.

amandagraczyk avatar
Minnie-me
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

omg this makes me want to cry! Dogs are amazing with their unconditional love and happiness.

christianhill avatar
Jonathan Eatsalot
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

$60k raised to a goal of $10k!.................................Humans care more for their pets then other humans.

sally_lindberg avatar
Sally Lindberg
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

dogs r probably the most loyal of the animals. I know all animals if the really connect with their owner/ caretakers will defend them. I've had horses be protective of me and my children but dogs lead the animal world by far. bless that pup.

kjorn avatar
Kjorn
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

wow already 60000$ raised in 4 days! who needs gun in 'Murica when you can have a dog! Dogs can be so protectives for their owner. when i was a kid my grand parents has a German Shorthaired Pointer. that dog was so sweet so nice with us, but when my parents punished me she get mad and try to pretected me. so when i've done bad thing i stayed beside their dogs :-). nicest dog i ever be with.

dogbreath-jfti avatar
Phillip Moderow
Community Member
6 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Rex was awesome but I'm not too sure about Javier.

jesselumpkin avatar
Jesse Lumpkin
Community Member
6 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

this is why I love dogs so much more than cats. This is in my opinion so don't antagonize me but cats are just lazy a** pieces of c**p that cant do anything but eat, sleep, and c**p. Dogs on the other hand will fight with all their might to protect you. This is my message to the people who thinks its ok to harm animals: if you think its ok to do so, you have no soul and deserve to die in a fire with acid being poured on you. My point is, we don't give enough attention to animals. If we did, there wouldn't be cats and dogs on the streets lonely, scared, hungry, and defenseless against huge animals.

smoky-x avatar
Rhân
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are stories where cats were heros too. I think no matter what animal it is, there is something you can be fascinated at and many of them can be a hero.

Load More Replies...
Popular on Bored Panda
Trending on Bored Panda
Also on Bored Panda