The qualities of a German Shepherd Dog are nothing short of impressive. This dog breed is known for its intelligence and loyalty, and the remarkable way it can adapt and perform excellently. Trainable, protective, and lovable, the German Shepherd Dog was initially a herding dog. Then it earned a stellar reputation for surpassing expectations as assistants in police and military work.

No wonder it’s among the top preferred breeds of pet owners.

68-year-old Lothar Weimann realized just how incredible his German shepherd Ellie was when the loyal companion saved his life.

The airport rental car driver and former dog trainer has two German Shepherds who he says see him as the leader of their pack – and what just happened made him appreciate them even more.

Suffering a stroke, Weimann recalls how he wasn’t even aware that he collapsed. It was only later on when a bump was discovered that he found out. Thankfully, despite his wife being away, Weimann had Ellie.

The 7-year-old German Shepherd, despite having joint pain, sprang into action the minute Weimann fell.

Ellie managed to hop over to a neighbor’s house and bark until she got the attention she needed.

All 51-year-old Dan Burton thought of doing was to walk the seemingly agitated dog back to Weimann’s house.

When it dawned on him that there was an emergency, he immediately called 911.

In the 911 recording, Burton could be heard reporting,

“His dog was out, and I was bringing ’em home, and he’s just out of it. He’s not his usual self. He doesn’t know my name. It’s almost like, you know, a stroke of sorts. He’s walking around, I’m trying to get him to sit down. I think he had a fall.”

Weimann was slurring his speech and couldn’t go about things properly.

How lucky that Burton was there to relay everything to the dispatcher. Thanks to Ellie, Weimann received proper medical care forty minutes after the phone call was made. He was also diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and heart problems, which he is working on to this day.

Recounting the day’s events prior to the stroke, Weimann shares that he was feeling feverish and even had a bit of a cough.

He expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Ellie, saying,

“A dog is always a very honest, very true kind of character. I will always say that dogs are the better than humans. It’s good to have them around. If you have a dog, you have a companion for life.”

According to him, his pets Ellie and Willy have been great at helping him around the house during the recovery period.

He says he owes his life to Ellie.

It’s comforting to know that Weimann will never truly be alone. He’ll always have wonderful company and he knows his dogs will keep him safe.

German Shepherd Dogs are one of a kind. With one (or two, or more!) around, you just know you’re in good hands.

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Source: WUSF Public Media, Prestige Animal Hospital, Facebook – Lothar Weimann