WOODWAY, Texas — A Woodway Public Safety Department K-9 named Shaka was bitten by a rattlesnake Thursday, Oct. 21, while protecting her handler Ofc. Joshua Hilliard.
In a Facebook post, the department said Shaka is expected to make a full recovery.
They were both in their backyard when Shaka alerted Ofc. Hilliard to something at his feet. Ofc. Hilliard lit the area with his flashlight and discovered a 3-foot rattlesnake coiled up and ready to strike.
In an effort to protect Ofc. Hilliard, Shaka had already attacked the snake and was unfortunately bitten on her snout twice.
Shaka was immediately rushed to the Waco Animal Emergency Clinic and was given anti-venom and is at South Bosque Veterinary Clinic for monitoring.
According to police, Shaka was nominated for the Aftermath K9 Grant. One week later, Woodway police announced that the K9 won the grant, the department is set to receive $5,000 in grant money for its K9 Division.
"Because of your dedication and prayers, we were the only Texas department to win grant money," said Woodway police. "Also, Shaka was able to leave Texas A&M last night. She is now at home with her handler, Joshua Hilliard, and recovering beautifully."
Shaka is expected to make a full recovery.
