When Sienna, a 4–5‑year‑old Labrador–Pit Bull mix and former stray, attended a Campbell County (Virginia) pet adoption fair, she wasn’t expecting to become a hero. But when she suddenly broke from the crowd of people, gently placed her paw on a stranger’s leg—and refused to leave—her instincts revealed an extraordinary gift.
Sienna’s Path from Stray to Shelter Star
Before the event, Sienna was living on the streets of Altavista, VA. Rescued by the Friends of Campbell County Animal Control, she turned out to be calm, house‑trained, and affectionate—but nobody knew she could detect medical emergencies.
A Sudden Alert at the Adoption Event
On June 7, amidst the buzz of the church yard‑sale‑style adoption fair, volunteers say Sienna “gently broke away from the crowd and walked straight up to a man she’d never met,” then “sat quietly at his feet, refused to budge, and softly placed her paw on his leg”. Staff confirmed this wasn’t prompted—it was pure intuition.
Intuition That Prevented a Crisis
Moments later, the man’s wife, Kristen Davis, realized he was showing signs of a myoclonic seizure—symptoms that started earlier that morning and intensified when he forgot his medication. The couple credits Sienna’s intervention—and the subsequent decision to go home and rest combined with a vagus‑nerve stimulator—with preventing a full seizure episode.
The Untrained Dog with Innate Empathy
Despite no formal medical‑alert training, Sienna acted instinctively—proof that some dogs can detect seizures by sensing subtle changes in smell or behavior. As shelter director Barbe Shackleford noted, “I’ve never seen one do it innately”.
A Hero Still Waiting for a Home
Sienna’s story went viral after the shelter posted on Facebook: “We’ve always known Sienna is special. But today, she reminded us that sometimes the ones we rescue are the ones who end up rescuing”. Donations poured in to cover her adoption and dental care. There’s strong interest—especially from families affected by epilepsy—but she still needs a forever home.
A Bond That Could Save Lives
Sienna showed that rescue dogs offer more than companionship—they can also be protectors with remarkable empathy. Her selfless act is a reminder: sometimes the ones we rescue are the ones who rescue us. As applications continue to roll in, the perfect match may be just around the corner.
adventuring, photography and videography. I am currently working towards a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology at Stellenbosch University to go on to specialise in Marine Sciences one day.
Please send any feedback to Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com
- The Elk Alarm: Nature’s Wake-Up Call in Norway - August 15, 2025
- Dog Scheduled for Euthanasia Gets a Life-Changing Second Chance - August 15, 2025
- Rescue Dog Saves Stranger from Impending Seizure - August 15, 2025