Dogs become attached to their humans in a way that we can’t understand. They also have a sixth sense that makes them exceptionally in tune with the people they love. That’s why they make good service dogs, and why one dog managed to warn her owner that something was seriously wrong.

Keola is an American Akita owned by Ricky and Alhanna Butler. Keola is very much a part of her family who dotes on her and loves her a lot. Keola was excited to know that they would soon be adding a new tiny human to the family.

When the loving pet first starting acting strangely toward pregnant Alhanna, the couple didn’t think much about it. They thought it must be because she was keeping a watchful eye on her mommy and the soon to be new member of the family.

As Alhanna progressed further along in her pregnancy she developed a nagging pain in her lower back. When she discussed the pain with her doctor, he assured her that it was likely nothing more than part of the pregnancy and the baby growing inside of her. Keola, however, knew better.

When Alhanna got home from the doctor, Keola stared intently at her owner. Alhanna said that her dog had never stared at her that way before. She posted her dog’s odd behavior on social media and her friends told her not to ignore the signs she was getting from her beloved dog.

As the days passed, Keola became more and more concerned for her owner. She followed her around everywhere, nudged on her constantly, and even whined when she left for work; something she had never done before. Alhanna finally took notice of her dog’s warnings and went to the hospital.

At the hospital, Alhanna found out that Keola’s instincts were right. She had a severe kidney infection that had been causing her back pain. The infection was from a rare, resistant type of bacteria and she was moments away from death.

Because the infection had gone untreated so long, the doctors told her it was the worst case they’d ever seen. Had she let the infection go any longer she likely would have died as well as her baby.

Thanks to Keola’s persistence, Alhanna was able to carry out her pregnancy. We’re happy to report that both Alhanna and her baby boy are in perfect health. Baby Lincoln and his guardian angel, Keola, are now the best of friends!