The Dream Fetchers Animal Rescue Service received a report of a German Shepherd laying by the side of the road in the California town of Muscoy at the end of January.

Marley, the dog, stayed still and did not even attempt to stand up.

A fluffy red dog was discovered next to her by the service workers.

He waited for aid for hours, staring at passing cars and refusing to leave his injured comrade.

Marley was in critical condition, according to Faith Easdale, the lifeguard who responded to the call.

She was gasping for air and in excruciating pain.

Faith wasn’t sure if the dog would make it.

When the rescuers attempted to get Marley into the car, her protector — a dog named Murphy – chased after her, not wanting to abandon his friend for even a second.

He sat down and placed his head on the dog’s massive tummy.

Marley was x-rayed at the veterinary clinic where the dogs were transported.

Doctors discovered a number of damaged bones as well as an unexpected bonus – eleven puppies waiting to be born.

Marley became a mother a few days later.

Despite the continual suffering in her paws, she attempted to pay as much care to the puppies as she could, and Murphy was always nearby.

It took almost two years for the dog to recover.

Marley was able to totally recover thanks to the foster family’s care and the assistance of physicians.

Her new owners describe her as “just as sweet and gorgeous as the day we first took her home.” “Marley leaps and plays as if she’s never broken a bone.”

Murphy, her companion and guardian, also found a new home and a family that appreciated his commitment and loyalty, thanks to Dream Fetchers.