What’s not to love about German shepherds They make fantastic companions and are often praised for their fearlessness — there is little that these super-intelligent pups can’t learn, given the training at the right age.

They’re also known for their readiness to step in and help someone in need from people to other dogs. One particular German shepherd, however, is making headlines for his inspiring and unlikely new bond with another animal.

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Sarge, a 9-year-old German Shepherd, lives in a regular home out in Ohio, covered by nature. The woods all around, are home to all kinds of wildlife, particularly deer. He was living a pretty normal life until everything suddenly changed when his mom brought home an orphaned fawn, named Buckwheat.

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

When Cheryl Stephen made the decision to bring home an orphaned fawn she found lying in the middle of the road, she wasn’t sure how Sarge would react. However, to her surprise, Sarge instantly stepped in to become a temporary babysitter for the deer.

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

In an interview with The Dodo, Cheryl Stephen, Sarge’s mom said;

“Something clicked in Sarge and he took to Buckwheat instantly,” “He wanted to be involved with every aspect of Buckwheat’s care.” “He took on the role of being Buckwheat’s guardian,” she added. “None of the other dogs were allowed near the baby.”

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

And Buckwheat was more than happy to accept Sarge as his surrogate father. As the fawn learned to use his wobbly legs, Sarge patiently moved at the baby’s pace, encouraging him to explore while keeping him out of any danger.

Eventually, Sarge had to say goodbye when it was time for Buckwheat to be released back into the wild to live his life — but that wasn’t the end of his deer-raising days. Sarge’s exceptional rehabilitation skills became of the talk of the town on the local area by the time Buckwheat was released back into the wild and Sarge’s mom Cheryl was the go-to-person anytime someone came across an orphaned or injured deer.

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

After learning about his compassionate side his owners have now started regularly introducing him to animals who have come upon hard times. Most often these are fawns, or baby deer, who have found themselves in need of extra care. This is Sarge’s job and it clearly makes him proud!

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Cheryl also praised Sarge for his protective qualities, saying,

“When I walk in the door carrying a fawn, Sarge springs into action,” “He wants to check them over and he will frantically sniff and nose around to determine their condition.” “The fawns are drawn to Sarge and feel safe in his presence. Sarge won’t leave their side.”

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

Image Credits: Cheryl Stephen

“It is my hope that these pictures will help others see just how loving and affectionate deer are. They have a soul, just like us humans,”  “If a dog can love and care for deer, people can, too.”, Stephen told The Dodo.

Sarge is always happy to do his job, no matter what they bring his way.