When we think of heroes, we tend to have a specific picture in mind.
Maybe it’s a classic comic-book superhero in a cape, or maybe it’s more of an everyday champion, like the awesome police officer who helped a little girl find a sweet new ride.
After all, heroes come in all shapes and sizes, from brave kiddos to grown-ups, not to mention other species. We’ve all seen a heroic dog or two at work! But if I had to guess, I would bet that the hero you’re picturing isn’t a horse.
That’s where Hercules comes in. No, not the figure from Greek legend — though he definitely earned his hero chops, too.
This Hercules is a draft horse, living and working at the University of Minnesota, where he is widely hailed as the MVP of the university’s veterinary medicine program.
That’s because Hercules isn’t just a gentle giant; he’s also the go-to guy for helping out other horses in need!
What do you think of his touching heroism? Let us know in the comments below!
Hercules is one impressive dude.
Weighing in at roughly 2000 lbs., the massive Belgian draft horse stands 6 feet tall and is known around the campus for his unusual job for the university's equine hospital.
Hercules is a blood-donor horse.
Hercules works at the Louise and Doug Leatherdale Equine Center associated with University Of Minnesota veterinary program.
Everyday, the medical staff at the hospital perform lifesaving treatments on horses who need surgery, or who need help after an accident.
Just like humans, these injured horses sometimes need blood transfusions.
That's where Hercules comes in.
The 16-year-old horse, who has been at the university for more than a decade, donates blood, up to two gallons at a time.
His blood is then used to help other horses who require surgery, or who have lost a lot of blood in an accident.
According to KARE 11 News, Hercules has given blood to approximately 80 other horses in his time at the school, meaning that he's saved scores of lives!
That's a pretty impressive record for a four-legged hero, don't you think?
Close by his side for the past three years has been veterinary student Zach Loppnow, who described Hercules as a "hero."
The pair have worked closely together in Loppnow's time as a student, and Loppnow checks in on Hercules a few times a week.
He has even earned the unusual distinction of riding Hercules when the horse needs exercise.
Though Loppnow is due to graduate this year, Hercules will be in good hand's next year with his successor.
A freshman veterinary student will pick up where Loppnow left off and be a companion and friend to the giant horse until it's her turn to graduate.
In the meantime, Hercules is receiving all sorts of attention and distinctions for his lifesaving work.
In February 2016, he even won the "Hero Animal Award," and was inducted into the Minnesota Hall Of Fame. He wasn't able to make an appearance at the ceremony, but fortunately, his good friend Zach was there to accept the award on his behalf!
If you loved learning all about Hercules the Hero Horse, make sure to SHARE with friends who love an everyday hero, no matter his species!
