Dog refuses to leave pal’s side after Japanese tsunami
At any time there is a natural disaster, such as the recent earthquake resulting tsunami that devastated Japan, our initial reaction is one of shock and horror. However, as we struggle to make sense amidst the chaos after the event, our spirits are lifted by the trickle of stories involving heroism, bravery, luck and loyalty that soon becomes a flood.
The latest such story was reported by a Japanese television crew. The footage they broadcast showed two dogs that were left stranded and shell-shocked after the disaster. Initially, a white and brown dog, possibly a spaniel, approaches the crew before sniffing them, and leading them down where it has been sheltering near an oil drum.
A few seconds later, it becomes apparent what the dog has been doing; its companion, seemingly lifeless, is sprawled on the floor, and his friend has stood as a sentinel over him, offering his protection.
Suddenly, the white dog stirs, and his companion reaches over with a paw to reassure him.
According to a translation on YouTube, the exchange between the camera crew was as follows:
“We are in Arahama area. Looks like there is a dog. There is a dog. He looks tired and dirty. He must have been caught in the tsunami. He looks very dirty.”
“He has a collar. He must be someone’s pet. He has a silver collar. He is shaking. He seems very afraid.”
“Oh, there is another dog. I wonder if he is dead.”
“Where?”
“Right there. There is another dog right next to the one sitting down. He is not moving. I wonder. I wonder if he is alright.”
“The dog is protecting him.”
“Yes. He is protecting the dog. That is why he did not want us to approach them. He was trying to keep us at bay.”
“I can’t watch this. This is a very difficult to watch.”
“Oh. Look. He is moving. He is alive. I am so happy to see that he is alive.”
“Yes! Yes! He is alive.”
“He looks to be weakened. We need to them to be rescued soon. We really want them rescued soon.”
“Oh good. He’s getting up.”
“It is amazing how they survived the tremendous earthquake and tsunami. It’s just amazing that they survived through this all.”
According to the website Life With Friends, the dogs were rescued and are recovering at a veterinary clinic in Ibaraki.
A coalition of three animal welfare groups – the Japan Cat Network, the Animal Garden Niigata and HEART-T Tokushima – collectively known as the Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support, are currently assisting with the overwhelming rescue operation that has been launched.
[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3TM9GL2iLI]
