When he decided to take Max home, with just a few days to go, Seu Osmar never imagined that this choice would one day save his life — more than three years later. On Sunday, the loyal dog was injured while protecting his owner during an attempted robbery in the center of Garibaldi, Rio Grande do Sul.

“I come from the countryside and had parked my truck in front of my store, in the city center. I had left Max in the back lot of the shop when two men came up and told me they were taking the vehicle. I said I didn’t have the keys. That’s when one of them pulled something from his pocket. I only had time to turn around and shout ‘Get Max!’” said Osmar Persico, 47.

Mr. Osmar was hit on the forehead. Seeing his owner hurt, Max immediately reacted. “He saw the blood and turned into a guardian. He charged like lightning to confront the men. One managed to get away, but the other was stopped by Max. In self-defense, the man then injured him. Max’s courage gave me the chance to get away safely,” he said.

The two suspects ran off without taking anything. Despite his wounds, the brave boxer is recovering well.

“He has two injuries — one on the chest and one on his right front leg — but he’s doing great. He’s moving around and we only had to support the injured leg. He’s strong, determined, and I believe he will fully recover,” said veterinarian Ari Glock, who treated Max after the emergency and is still following his progress.

Max will continue living near Seu Osmar’s shop, as the family’s home is in an apartment. “We’ve always been together — we walk every day and that won’t change. He has always been special to us, but now he will be my hero forever,” Persico said.

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