Jeremy Sons, known locally as the Denton Spider-Man for his visits to children in costume, intervened to save a beaver named Todd at South Lakes Park. The animal was observed swimming in circles with cloudy eyes and significant weight loss, appearing distressed both in the water and on nearby roads.
Although animal control had been contacted previously, they reported the beaver was either acting normally or could not be located when officers arrived.
Sons arrived before officials and captured the beaver using a dip net while wearing Kevlar gloves. An animal control officer informed him that Todd faced euthanasia due to potential rabies exposure after being touched by an unpermitted individual. Despite these risks, the beaver was not killed. Instead, Sons transported Todd to Nature’s Edge Wildlife and Reptile Rescue in Cleburne on August 16.
The incident has sparked intense debate online. A video of the rescue posted by Sons’ nonprofit, Clear Creek Adventure Ranch, has garnered millions of views. The organization, founded by Jeremy and his wife Katelyn, houses disabled animals and funds operations through tours and merchandise. However, Sons operates without a state license or permit to rescue wildlife.
Sons argued that legal requirements should not hinder immediate aid. He stated that if he were drowning, he would want anyone to save him regardless of their credentials. He expressed frustration that the public seems more focused on permits than animal welfare.
"You’d think animal lovers will just be like, ‘Oh, yeah, well, at least, you’re helping the animals …’ No, no, no, they don’t give a dang about the animal," Sons said.
