Hero Dog Who Saved Girl From Rattlesnake Goes Home

TAMPA, FL — Haus, the 2-year-old German shepherd who stole hearts across the globe after he saved a 7-year-old girl from a rattlesnake earlier this month, has officially been released from the hospital.

The folks at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Tampa announced Haus’ release Thursday afternoon.

“This is why I do my job,” said Dr. Danielle Pollio, one of the vets who treated Haus after he stood between Molly DeLuca and the rattlesnake. Haus was bitten three times during the May 11 incident at Adam and Donya DeLuca’s New Tampa home.

Haus will require follow-up care, but Pollio said his long-term outlook is good.

According to the DeLucas, Haus was in the family’s backyard with Molly and her 75-year-old grandmother when the dog noticed the snake. He quickly jumped between the child and the rattler. Despite three bites, Haus “stood his ground,” BluePearl spokeswoman Carrie O’Brion told Patch earlier this week.

During his stay at BluePearl, Haus received anti-venom, IV fluids and pain medication, O’Brion said.

“He was protecting my child,” Donya DeLuca said of her dog.

A gofundme account was created to help cover the costs of Haus’ care, which were estimated at more than $10,000. That account earned more than $52,000 in four days, prompting DeLuca to close the fundraiser. She asked those interested in helping Haus to instead assist Heidi’s Legacy Rescue, the organization the family adopted Haus from.

Haus has become such a celebrity since his story went viral that he now has his own Facebook fan page. More than 2,300 people follow “Haus the Hero Dog” via Facebook.

Haus and the DeLuca family’s experience serve as reminders of the dangers venomous snakes can pose in Florida, BluePearl veterinarians noted in a media release about Haus’ happy news. The story also serves as a reminder of the need for immediate medical attention after a bite. Donya DeLuca rushed Haus to a local emergency vet shortly after the attack. He was transferred to BluePearl shortly after for more intensive care.

Photo of Dr. Danielle Pollio, Adam DeLuca, Donya DeLuca and Haus courtesy of BluePearl Veterinary Partners