Hurricane Katrina brought about some of the worst horrors this country has ever known. Out of her destruction and chaos, emerged the most unthinkable atrocities and, for some, life became so mutated that the hell may never be over for them. But at the same time, the most beautiful swell of compassion, loyalty, and caring rose up just as mightily. And it wasn't always from a human source.
While teams in helicopters and boats snatched people and animals from harm's way, a black Labrador retriever was staging her own heroic rescue. One fortunate man told how, when the waters rose, the dog pulled him to higher ground and prevented his drowning. He fully credited her with saving his life. After the man's story was aired on television, a rescue team returned to save the dog.
Other reports told of a number of dogs staying faithfully beside the lifeless body of their owner. Though dehydrated and starving, they refused to leave the person they loved. Sadly, some of them aggressively guarded their deceased human family. It seems that the dogs were just as unwilling to leave their family members as the humans who refused rescue, preferring to wait and suffer with their pets. Such is the strength of the human/animal bond.
According to the National Pet Owners Study, 74% of dog owners consider their pet as a child or family member. The study also found that, in 2004, pet owners in the US spent more than $34 billion on their pets, easily topping the $20 billion spent on children's toys. Add to this, all the stories of dogs who have given their life to save a human and there's no mistaking the strength of the human/animal bond.
It's only proper that Katrina, the Labrador, received recognition during the Genesis Awards, for her heroic deed. It's quite fitting that she received a standing ovation.
Related Reading:
Preparing Your Pet for a Hurricane
Mixed Breed Dog Heroes
Joy Butler - Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
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