Joe was a German shepherd that my grandfather was trying to train to be a hunter, but he was too wild at times and would often tear after the prey before my grandfather gave the ok, and would ignore being called back. That all changed one night, however.
It was a damp and bitter November night around 1972. My grandfather was hunting deer late into the evening and he had brought Joe and his other dog, Sampson, along. They were deep into a pine wood when Sampson began whining and cowering. My grandfather noticed this strange behavior, but Joe seemed fine, so they continued on.
About five minutes later, a putrid stench seemed to fill the air. He described it as like human waste, a rotting carcass, and garbage all rolled into one. That’s when Joe began to react. He flattened back his ears and growled at something back in the darkness. Sampson, too, began to growl.
My grandfather had his spotlight with him and he shined it in the direction the dogs were barking. The next thing he saw gave him the chills. Two gleaming red eyes reflected back at him from an enormous black shadow about 40 yards away. He recalled the shadow being at least 8 feet tall. And he was certain that whatever this beast was, it was what was giving off the horrible odor.
My grandfather immediately grabbed hold of Sampson’s collar, but he wasn’t quick enough to grab Joe’s and the dog tore after the creature. The beast backed away slowly and retreated into the blackness, seemingly unalarmed. Fearful for Joe’s safety, my grandfather strained his ears. He listened to Joe’s barks and howls for some time when they began to fade and my grandfather turned to leave. He feared the worst, but did not want to be in those creepy woods with a strange creature on the loose anymore.
When he arrived home, he told the family what happened with Joe and the creature. Although he thought it a crazy story, with his family’s urges, he made a report about the creature to the police.
The next day, they were in for a shock when his son, Paul (my uncle), came home carrying Joe in his arms. He said he saw Joe on the side of the road when he was driving into town. He thought Joe was dead at first, since he was just lying there, but he wasn’t, just very, very frightened. Joe continued to cower and walk around with his tail between his legs, fearful of everything and anything.
The family was stumped. What kind of creature could possibly scare a youthful and hyperactive young dog to the point in which it was terrified of everything? In relation to this, apparently my grandfather wasn’t the only witness to this creature. Nine other reports were made to the police about it.
Damon M
I hope my female Shepard takes heed to this account. She seems to have a lot in common with Old Joe…but she will never learn – Ha!
Charles R
Glad the dog made. Must have run up to the 8 foot shadow only to find he picked the wrong prey and tore off with no sense of awareness. The relationship of dogs with bigfoots is one that always amazes me and I have heard some weird ones. I think overall the sasquatch relate dogs to wolves and coyotes that would prey on their young if unguarded. Other times a Sasquatch is more kind in their approach to dogs and I have even heard of them playing with dogs.
E Meredith L
The “terrified dog” indicator is still the first one I listen for.
Gerald G
I have two dog’s . I would never leave such a loyal friend to the chance that either one would would get killed for protecting me. They would see me right along side them , because my guns would be blazing. Not to try sounding macho I love my dog’s that much.
Kay S
I’m with you Gerald G! My dog would give his life for me, just as I would give mine for him, no questions, no hesitation!
Robert D
Agreed Kay and Gerald but we have to remember, he was an older gentleman and had Samson, the other dog to worry about as well. The way the story is told, it seems as though Joe and Sasquatch were way into the distance in a hurry so I doubt Grandpa could have even remotely kept up.
On a personal note, if I was Grandpa, I’d have gone home quickly, made a few calls and had the whole family and circle of friends out looking. (IF I was Grandpa’s age)