In Cedar Hills, Utah, a Labrador Retriever named Ella is being hailed as a hero after bravely defending her family from a mountain lion attack.

The Michaelis family was enjoying their backyard when Ella began acting unusually protective near the rock wall. She repeatedly glanced at the children and nudged them toward safety. Realizing something was wrong, the family quickly went inside. Moments later, Ella came face-to-face with a mountain lion in the yard.

When the owners opened the back door, they found Ella covered in blood with severe cuts to her head, legs, neck, and tongue, as well as more than 30 bite wounds and a concussion. Despite her injuries, Ella had successfully kept the wild predator away from her family.

“She is our hero,” owner Crystal Michaelis told reporters, adding that Ella’s quick actions likely saved their lives.

Local police and wildlife officials confirmed the attack and warned residents to be cautious, keep children close, and bring pets indoors, as mountain lions are known to roam the area. The predator has not yet been caught, though tracks were found in the Michaelis’ backyard.

This incredible story of courage is a reminder of the powerful bond between humans and their dogs — and the lengths pets will go to protect the ones they love.