WATCH: Florida deputy saves K-9 unit from falling over bridge 'most likely to his death!!', sheriff says

Zeppelin, a Belgian Malinois that weighs approximately 75 pounds, was saved when the deputy held onto his leash after he jumped and pulled him to safety

Florida sheriff's deputy saves life of her K-9

The Brevard County Sheriff's deputy saved the K-9 after the dog jumped over a bridge.

A Florida sheriff's deputy is credited with saving the life of her K-9 partner, after the dog jumped over the railing of a bridge, "most likely to his death!!" authorities said Thursday. 

K-9 Deputy Lauren Donaldson was on the 528 Causeway when Zeppelin suddenly leaped over the bridge's guardrail and off the bridge, which is 75 feet above water, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey said in a Facebook post. 

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Donaldson, who "weighs 122 pounds when she is soaking wet and holding a bowling ball," was captured on video holding on tight to Zeppelin's leash to prevent the dog, a Belgian Malinois that weighs 75 pounds, from falling. 

Florida deputy and her K-9

Brevard County Sheriff's Office Deputy Lauren Donaldson saved her K-9, "Zeppelin," after he jumped off of a bridge, almost to his death, authorities said.  (Brevard County Sheriff's Office)

A few seconds later, she is seen hoisting the K-9 back over the guardrail to safety as the dog wags its tail. 

"Without Lauren’s fast action there is no question that Zeppelin would have fallen approximately 75 feet into the Indian River and most likely to his death!!" the sheriff's office wrote. 

Donaldson and Zeppelin are are two-time reigning champions in the "Hardest Hitting K-9" category of the Space Coast K-9 Competition, Ivey said. 

Louis Casiano is a reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Authored by Louis Casiano via FoxNews March 22nd 2024