QUITO, Ecuador (AP) — Five rescue dogs were honored by Ecuador’s Fire Department on Monday at a ceremony formally retiring them after seven years of service and turning them over to new adoptive owners.
Lt. Col. Esteban Cardenas said the dogs — Ares, Kratos, Zeus, Titan and Gaia — were part of the first class of canines used by the department’s rescue unit, which works with German shepherds and golden retrievers.
Cardenas recalled some of their feats, including aiding in finding survivors of earthquakes and landslides across Ecuador and abroad, including a mission to Mexico in 2017.
He said veterinarian reports had suggested it was time to retire the five dogs.
“Today for us is a day of mixed feelings. We really would not want them to leave. We would have liked to have them with us in our ranks,” Cardenas said.
The dogs’ new owners were selected carefully after meeting certain requirements, he said.
Gaia’s new owner, Valeria Zevallos, said she was amazed by her new pet’s previous career of saving lives.
“Many adventures await us now. After her work adventures, family adventures,” she said.
Bell's RBI single in 10th lifts Marlins to 3
Watermelon Sales Boost Villagers' Income in Rongjiang County, Guizhou
Chinese Academy of Sciences Issues Certificates to 65 New Academicians
A Canadian serial killer who brought victims to a pig farm is hospitalized after a prison assault
Hebei's Schools Organize Activities to Help Students Stay in Best Shape Before Gaokao
Ethnic Festival 'Liuyueliu' Celebrated in SW China's Guizhou
China Mulls Recognition of 18 New Professions
Kentucky congressman expects no voter fallout for his role in attempt to oust House speaker
Celebratory Atmosphere Ahead of 25th Anniv. of Hong Kong's Return to Motherland
Progressive prosecutor in Portland, Oregon, seeks to fend off tough
UN Launches Guidance Note on Monitoring, Reporting of Children Abducted in Conflicts