The Chihuahua is many things: pet, actor, mascot, and even fashion accessory. If it hadn't been for the quick actions last month of a pet owner in Crystal Lake, Illinois, however, "snack" very well could have been added to the list.

"It was around 1:30 in the morning," Dana Kalomiris said, "and my husband George had taken our 3 year-old Chihuahua, Chico, outside for a bathroom break. They hadn't gone very far outside before George heard whimpering and then Chico made a sharp cry. When George turned around, he couldn't believe his eyes. A Great Horned Owl had silently swooped down and snatched Chico in its talons!"