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Steady shark activity is no surprise in Australia, particularly when it comes to the southern and western regions of the continent, but really, no coast is off limits.

And recently, there’s been loads of shark activity, especially in the shallow waters, as feeding frenzies have erupted at popular surf spots like Snapper Rocks and Byron Bay. Luckily, in those instances, there were no humans caught in the fray as collateral damage.

But this dog below, it damn near suffered the wrath of a meaty tiger shark in West Oz – however, instead, the shark almost seemed more spooked than the pup.

The footage comes from Lexo Aveleyra, an ocean enthusiast, drone operator, and frequent documenter of marine wildlife including whales, dolphins, and sharks. However, compared to his other content, this clip features a cameo from an unlikely co-star: a golden doodle named Olive, who was playing in the shallows when the shark came up for a sniff.

Aveleyra tells the tale:

“I spotted a beautiful tiger shark, one of many that return to our coastline around this time of year. Whether they’re resting, nursing, or simply passing through — they are here.

“I followed the shark as it cruised toward shallower water, waiting for it to surface for a clean shot. Suddenly, it turned back — likely sensing movement in the water. To my complete surprise, the shark went in to investigate a beautiful groodle named Olive, who had done the same. A brief, face-to-face encounter.”

Afterwards, Aveleyra met the dog’s owner, and showed her the footage. Both, as imagined, were shocked. And while this encounter ended safely for all, Aveleyra took the opportunity to remind folks about the dangers, and raise awareness, of what’s lurking below:

“Signs or no signs, awareness is what matters. We all know what lives in the ocean. Respect nature, stay alert, and always take precautions.”

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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