Loyal Service Dog Refuses to Leave Hospital Room After Saving Owner's Life

Early Training and Unexpected Skills

Ruby began therapy dog training in 2017, two years after Shauna adopted her. Initially trained to help with Shauna’s anxiety, depression, and agoraphobia, Ruby soon showed additional abilities. She started noticing changes in Shauna’s heart rate and would alert her by pawing, seeking attention, or climbing onto her. Shauna followed Ruby’s cues and visited a doctor, where she discovered previously unknown health issues, including a rare vascular heart condition and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. This discovery became the focus of Ruby’s service work. Life-Saving Alert and Hospital Stay Shauna’s condition makes her prone to fainting, and Ruby always knows how to respond. When Shauna feels faint, Ruby stands over her, applies pressure, and licks her hands and face until she regains consciousness. Ruby even received an updated vest explaining her actions if Shauna were to lose consciousness. Ruby consistently detects problems before they escalate.

Trusting Ruby completely, Shauna called an ambulance as a precaution

Trusting Ruby completely, Shauna called an ambulance as a precaution. It was the right call—Shauna was experiencing atrial fibrillation. By the time paramedics arrived, she was in pain and barely conscious. During the ride to the hospital, Shauna realized her best friend had saved her life. Comfort in the Hospital and Beyond Ruby’s therapeutic skills came into play as she curled up on Shauna’s hospital bed, ensuring she knew she was not alone. Their bond goes far beyond a working relationship—it is love, deep and powerful. Shauna says she would not be alive without Ruby. Of course, the feeling is mutual. When off duty, Ruby enjoys playing and cuddling with Shauna, just like any dog. She is truly multitalented.