Algiers Dog Names

Ben Aknoun is an area (called a commune) that is part of what is known as the heights in Algiers. Ben is also the name of a heroic dog who wound up saving the lives of some of his family members. The much-loved dog of the Rauschenberg family, Ben saved the lives of the children of Collen Rauschenberg, who had adopted the pup, who is a mix between a Bernese Mountain dog and Border Collie. Colleen had been looking for a dog when her friend Helyn told her about a pup in the town newspaper.

 Living up to his nicknames of “Big Ben” and “Gentle Ben”, the canine pal willingly let his human siblings dress him in a Steeler’s jersey. When the Rauschenbergs had to leave the house and move into an apartment, Ben was not allowed to come because the apartment did not allow pets. He was allowed to visit and during one of those visits, the landlord was so impressed by Ben’s behavior that he was allowed to move in. And it was a good thing, because his presence may have saved the lives of four children.

 This happened one night when Colleen went for a rare night out. When she had her children with her she typically wanted to spend every moment with them. One night, however, her friend Helyn’s daughter, Alexx, asked if she could babysit to earn some money. Before Colleen left for the evening she put a pair of pants in the dryer before leaving Alexx in charge. Colleen called home several times during her evening out and was assured by Alexx that everything was fine.

Then, however, Colleen got a call that she will never forget; her daughter letting her know that they needed her because their house was on fire. It is thought that the fire may have started from lint in the dryer from when Colleen ran it earlier. Apparently, as the children and Alexx slept, Ben must have smelled the smoke. He quickly reacted, going to Alexx first and pouncing on the bed where he was laying until she woke up. Alexx had learned from her mom that if a dog wakes her up it is likely for a good reason and you should pay attention. Thinking Ben needed the bathroom, Alexx went to let him out and noticed the fire. Fortunately, Alexx was able to get the kids, and Ben, out safely before calling for help. While Ben may not think he did anything special, to Colleen, he is a hero.