The mangy dog was homeless and starving. A thoughtless irresponsible person had abandoned her, and in June 1999 she had been roaming the rural Oklahoma neighborhood for several weeks when someone decided to call Animal Control. It should have been the end of the road for the poor little stray. Instead, she became a hero. Here is the unbelievable story: Renee Manor of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, thought the police officer who responded to the animal control call was trying to tranquilize the scruffy yellow mutt. The young mother was horrified to find that the official was "shooting to kill," because mange prevented the dog from being brought to the shelter. When the injured animal miraculously walked away after the policeman's bullet struck her behind the ear, Renee knew she had to save the scraggly stray. The family already has four dogs and could not handle another, but the little dog was allowed to take up residence on the Manor front porch while Renee tried to decide what to do. Although a permanent home could not be found, a few days later Renee's act of kindness was rewarded a thousand-fold. Eighteen-month-old Lexee Manor was outside playing and smelling the flowers when she suddenly came face to face with a rattlesnake. Renee heard the snake rattle its tail. Then, in the blink of an eye, the still-nameless dog jumped in front of the toddler, pushed her out of harm's way, and took the venomous snake bite meant for the child. It didn't take long for Renee to name the dog Hero, and bring her to Animal Aid of Tulsa for emergency veterinary care. The kind folks at this wonderful organization are not only taking care of Hero's snake bite and mange, but they are also going to find her an excellent adoptive home. And it will be a lucky family who adopts her. "She's got mange, a bullet wound and a snake bite," said Renee, "but she doesn't bark, bite, or even growl--and she loves the children." Because of the courage Hero showed in protecting Lexee Manor from a lethal snake bite she is receiving a plaque from North Shore Animal League proclaiming her a Lewyt Award recipient, while her foster mom Renee Manor will receive a $500 check. At the same time, Animal Aid of Tulsa, the organization responsible for Hero's care and adoption, will receive a matching award and certificate.