A Tale of Bravery: Senior Dog Faces Bear to Safeguard Family
March 28, 2026
In the serene setting of Cordova, a senior dog has become a symbol of courage, illustrating that heroism is not restrained by age or physical limitations.
Honey, a 12-year-old dog with partial blindness, is now hailed as a guardian after her fearless confrontation with a bear during a recent night incident.
Honey the dog / KOB 4 News
Earlier this month, Honey was acting as the watchful protector of the Martinez family’s property, home to various animals including chickens and horses, when she sensed something amiss.
“She was tracking something at the time. We didn’t know what, but we knew she was tracking something,” Denise Martinez said.
The following morning, the full extent of the night’s danger was revealed.
Honey was discovered in the driveway, gravely injured. The area bore signs of conflict—markings on fences and trees suggesting a bear had intruded on their land.
Incredibly, Honey had faced the bear.
“Her face was swollen on the left… and that’s when I saw, like her whole neck was just ripped from the back all the way down,” remarked Leanna Martinez.
Despite her severe injuries, Honey managed to return home.
The family quickly took her to an emergency vet, where she was admitted for overnight care.
“It was just devastating. You know, I never thought I would ever see our dog in that shape,” Darren Martinez expressed.
Facing escalating medical expenses, the family sought assistance from Española Humane. The clinic provided essential care at a reduced cost, treating Honey’s significant neck wound and continuing her rehabilitation with bandage changes and medication.
“Her face was so hugely swollen I mean you couldn’t even tell features in her face,” said Mattie Allen.
Honey’s recovery will be prolonged, with her wound remaining unhealed for several months. Yet, her actions that night undoubtedly safeguarded her family and the numerous animals relying on her.
“She’s our little savior,” Denise stated. “She’s been nicknamed the bear slayer.”
Adding a touch of endearing contrast to her bravery, “She’s afraid of the vacuum cleaner.”
