In a remarkable act of courage, Kim Spencer from Tampa, Florida, saved her dog Kona from a 6.5-foot alligator during their evening walk. As the predator attacked, Spencer instinctively leaped onto the alligator, risking her life to pry its jaws open and free her dog. Both suffered injuries and required stitches; however, Spencer emphasized her emotional bond with Kona, whom she rescued eight years ago. The frightening encounter underscores the dangers that can arise in suburban environments close to wildlife.
"I saw the eyes. I saw it turning itself around towards us, and I started pulling Kona away, saying, 'Let's go.' But she's a really strong dog," Spencer told the outlet.
"[I] jumped on it, straddled it, as ladylike as that is, and was trying to pry its jaws open," Spencer added.
"We just got lucky because it ran," Spencer said. "Just as quickly as it ran after us it went right back in the water and I got up and we were out of there."
"We're empty nesters, she's my baby, so I wasn't ready to take on that mindset that she's an animal versus a human," Spencer said.
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