Dogs are known as man’s best friend because of the utter loyalty and devotion that they show the humans that they love. Now, one dog has received a top award for thinking fast to save his owner’s life!

Todd was only 6 months-old when he saved the life of his owner Paula Godwin after they came upon a gray-speckled, gray and white rattlesnake while out for a walk in Arizona near their home. Todd put himself between Paula and the rattlesnake, getting bit himself in the process.

“My hero of a puppy Todd saved me,” Paula later recounted on Facebook. “He jumped right in front of my leg [where] I surely would have [been] bit.”

Todd ended up being bitten in the face, but thanks to his efforts, Paula was uninjured. Veterinarians expect him to make a full recovery!

After Paula’s post went viral, Milk-Bone decided to award Todd their “Dog of the Year” award at the 8th Annual Streamy Awards in Beverly Hills, California.

“We created this honor because we believe that dogs deserve to be honored in the same way humans are honored,” said Jonathan Rodgers, senior brand manager, Milk-Bone. “We are thrilled that fans voted for Todd to win the first ever Milk-Bone Dog of the Year Honor. Todd truly embodies the qualities associated with this honor and goes above and beyond by providing comfort and happiness to all of those around him.”

It never ceases to amaze us just how much love dogs show to humans. Paula is one lucky woman to have a dog like Todd to protect her!

Find out more about Todd’s selfless act in the video below!