By DAISY NGUYEN , Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A dog that survived the catastrophic wildfire in Northern California apparently guarded his home for nearly a month until his owner returned.

Madison was there waiting when Andrea Gaylord, who fled on Nov. 8, was allowed back onto her burned property in Paradise this week.

An animal rescuer who responded to Gaylord’s request to check on Madison first spotted the male Anatolian shepherd days after fire broke out.

Shayla Sullivan said the outdoor guard dog was apprehensive and kept his distance. Sullivan left food and water for him regularly until Gaylord got back on Wednesday.

Gaylord told news station ABC10 she couldn’t ask for a better animal. She added: “Imagine the loyalty of hanging in in the worst of circumstances and being here waiting.”