A little rain never hurt anybody. Too much rain, though, can quickly become a problem. Most often, extreme weather can leave residents scrambling for safety, or at least higher ground. When floods hit Joso, Japan, an elderly couple took unprecedented action.

An elderly couple refuses to leave their dogs behind

Instead of fleeing to a safer location, the couple climbed atop the roof of their home. With them were their two dogs. The couple decided to stay with their dogs, unwilling to leave the pets they loved so much.

The water continues to creep up

Unfortunately, the waters continued to rise as all four huddled on the roof of the home, hoping help would arrive. The couple’s prayers were soon answered as a helicopter arrived to rescue the couple and their pets.

A daring rescue is made

The whole incident was captured on video and posted to YouTube where it has gotten over 11.9 million views. To add to the danger of the situation, the helicopter also had to deal with high winds as a rescue worker was lowered from the helicopter to the roof below.

Getting the couple to safety, but not without their dogs

As he reaches the roof and beckons the elderly couple to come with him, he is told that they will not leave their pets behind. And who can blame them, to many people, their pets are a part of the family?

The rescuer seems to understand this as he alters the rescue plan.

So, the rescue worker has each of them bring a pet with them, making sure to strap the pet securely in a bag for the trip back up to the helicopter.

Once they are secure, it is time for the rescuer to make another descent to the roof below.

As he reaches the roof again, the elderly man places the dog he is holding into a tote bag. Then they are off, making their own trip to the waiting helicopter.

Everyone is finally safe

Miraculously, everyone is soon aboard as the helicopter flies them to safety. Most surprising of all is how calm the dogs seem to be during the whole rescue attempt.

The love for their pets is strong with this couple

This is also a perfect example of the professionalism of most rescue workers and their ability to adapt to a situation, regardless of the circumstances. This story also shows the extremes pet lovers will go to protect their pets.

For more of this daring rescue, check out the video below!

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Sources: YouTube – IBTimes UK, The Animal Rescue Site