We all think our own pupper is the dog of the year, every year, but what have they ever really done for us, other than provide unrelenting love, loyalty and companionship?
That's nothing compared to the actual dog of the year, who provides all of the above and takes venomous bites to the face to protect his owner.
Golden retriever Todd was only six months old when he was bitten in the face by a rattlesnake while out on a walk with his owner, Paula Godwin, in Anthem, Arizona.
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Paula quickly picked him up and rushed him to the hospital and fortunately, after 12 hours of care, the brave little fella was on the mend. However, as the pictures show, he was left with a very silly looking face.
She said: "When we were out on our walk everything was fine, but since Todd is so curious he saw something by my leg and darted towards it.
"There was no warning and suddenly the snake bit Todd in the face.
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"I quickly pulled him away and rushed him to the hospital and thankfully got there in just under 10 minutes.
"They gave him an anti-venom while he was there and he stayed in the hospital for 12 hours to make sure he was OK.
"He is now on the mend and the swelling is slowly going down - Anthem animal hospital did an amazing job."
Paula added that she has always been hyper aware of the threat of snakes and is raising money for anti-vemon treatment for owners who can't afford it. She also said this particular snake was very well disguised and did not rattle (sneaky), meaning she could have very easily have walked straight into the bite herself if it hadn't been for Todd.
She said: "This snake did not give any indication he was there. Usually if I hear that rattle I am alert and I am backing away - but nothing.
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"I think he was just resting in the road, he was a grey speckled white rattle snake and looked just like that road and I did not see him.
"Just be aware. I am so aware, so vigilant, so aware of my surroundings, and I didn't see him either.
"He saved me from getting bit, Todd is definitely my hero.
"Everyone has been so wonderful and supportive also, it's amazing how supportive everyone has been of my brave pooch."
In recognition of his bravery, Todd has been chosen as the inaugural 'Dog of the Year' by dog biscuit brand Milk-Bone. The award is described as recognising the 'bravery, overcoming obstacles, and strong personality and loyalty traits that make all dogs truly special' and was awarded to Todd at a ceremony in Beverly Hills on 22 October.
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Now all we need is for that rattlesnake to be given the 'Prick Snake of the Year' award for biting that gorgeous golden retriever pup in the face, without even a warning rattle or anything.
Featured Image Credit: Caters