An ordinary trip to the Detroit Zoo turned into a day Rick Swope will never forget.
Swope came upon the chimpanzee exhibit and was enthralled by two chimps ‘playing’. Upon closer observation, Swope realized one chimp was actually chasing the other in an aggressive manner.
Then the chimp being chased lost his balance and fell into the water beneath.
Source: Animal Planet/YouTube
The incident was caught on the zoo’s surveillance cameras. Shockingly there wasn’t a single zookeeper in sight who could help.
The chimp was quickly overwhelmed as the water overtook his body. The chimp, named JoJo, couldn’t swim.
Swope’s gut screamed that he had no other choice but to break the zoo’s safety rules. He dove into the water inside the enclosure and rescued the drowning chimp.
Source: Animal Planet/YouTube
Swope claims that the whole incident was heartbreaking. He told news outlets that JoJo had his hands up and his little head was sticking out above the water.
He looked on at the crowd in desperation like he knew he needed help and but no one stepped forward.
Source: Animal Planet/YouTube
Just as Swope ran over to the chimp and pulled him from the water, he slipped back in. Swope had to drag him to the shoreline again.
Then the aggressive chimp came barreling down the hill towards Swope bearing his teeth. Swope knew he didn’t have much time. Now that the drowning chimp was safe, he had to get out of there.
Source: Animal Planet/YouTube
The hero left the rescued chimp and ran full tilt out of the enclosure. His good deed was done and now it was time to get to safety.
Source: Animal Planet/YouTube
Swope got a huge round of applause from the crowd. Would you have risked your own safety to save this innocent animal in need? Let us know in the comment section!
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Lucky Elderly Man Is Greeted Every Day By A “Friend” Who Crawls Out Of The Ice:
We’ve all seen some unique and unlikely friendships over the years, but this one here may take the cake!
One day, a starving otter appeared at an elderly man’s door wanting some food. Ever since, Seppo Laamanen, 65, and Iivari the otter have been inseparable best friends.
Source: StoryTrender/YouTube
It all started when Seppo fed worms and fish to the small and malnourished otter who was clearly looking for food.
After that, the friendly animal repaid the kindness by visiting the man at his home in Punkaharju in easter Finland. This was the start of something special.
Source: StoryTrender/YouTube
There’s no way Seppo could’ve ever imagined it’d all lead to this. This adorably unique friendship is one for the ages, and it’s something you have to see to believe.
There’s nothing like the bond between two friends regardless of the species! 🙂
Next Story:
10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet
Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.
While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.
These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.
1) Akita
When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.
Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr
2) Boxer
This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.
Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr
3) Skye Terrier
Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.
Source: WaketheSun/Flickr
4) Beagle
This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.
Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr
5) Shar-Pei
This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.
Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr
