A dog named Chloe from Nipigon, Ontario, is being honored for her bravery in protecting her family from a black bear last autumn. Chloe, a mixed-breed medium-sized dog, has been inducted into the prestigious Purina Animal Hall of Fame. This recognition is given to pets who show exceptional courage and loyalty in safeguarding their owners during life-threatening situations, as stated in a recent press release.
Colette Shwetz, Chloe’s owner along with her husband Joe, shared that Chloe was rescued in May 2019 when she was approximately six months old. Colette described Chloe as a reserved dog with a loving nature. Chloe’s courageous act took place on the night of September 16, 2025, when she encountered a bear in the yard, which followed her inside the house.
In an unexpected turn of events, the bear found its way into the kitchen where Colette, Joe, and Chloe were present. Joe, who was asleep, was awakened by Chloe’s barking and rushed to the kitchen to find Chloe holding the bear’s hind leg in her mouth, attempting to guide it out of the house. With their combined efforts, they managed to lead the bear out of the kitchen and into the basement.
Despite sustaining injuries, Chloe bravely stood her ground, barking and deterring the bear until the authorities arrived and safely dealt with the situation. Colette mentioned that all three, including Chloe, required medical attention for their wounds, with Chloe facing a particularly severe bite. Fortunately, Chloe recovered well and was rewarded with a steak dinner for her valor.
Purina, in a press release, highlighted that the Animal Hall of Fame, established in 1968, has acknowledged 198 animals to date for their extraordinary acts of bravery and dedication, which have saved lives across Canada. Chloe joins the ranks of heroes recognized by the Hall of Fame, which includes 170 dogs, 27 cats, and one horse.
Chloe is not the only canine from northwestern Ontario to be honored in the Hall of Fame. Murph, an Australian Blue Merle Sheepdog from Kenora, was inducted in 1984 for alerting her owners to a fire in their apartment building, allowing everyone to evacuate safely.