Imagine the surprise of a Louisiana couple who recently relocated from Arizona when they found a five-foot alligator lounging in their hallway. Don and Jan Schultz of New Iberia had a rude awakening last week when their Australian cattle dog, Panda, alerted them to an unexpected visitor around 1:30 a.m.

Mr. Schultz, armed with his pistol, investigated the commotion and discovered the alligator near the edge of a rug. He later recounted being just inches from the reptile's head in the darkness. The couple immediately dialed 911, and deputies from the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office swiftly responded.

The Schultzes believe the alligator entered their home through a dog door, likely drawn by the cool air escaping into the warm Louisiana night. A wildlife expert arrived on the scene around 2:15 a.m. and concurred with this theory, citing the recent heatwave as a possible motivator for the alligator's indoor adventure.

The capture was caught on video, showing the trapper skillfully using a catch pole to secure the alligator, which put up a bit of a struggle by attempting to roll away. The reptile was then safely restrained in the family's garage.

This unusual incident highlights the occasional close encounters between humans and wildlife, especially in regions where alligators are common. For the Schultzes, it's certainly a story they won't soon forget, and a reminder that even dog doors can offer an open invitation to unexpected guests.