A Border Collie named Tsunami who helped save more than two dozen people trapped after earthquakes in Venezuela earlier this year has been honored with a bronze statue dedicated to his work.
The 8-year-old dog, working alongside his handler Jorge Beens, rescued more than 26 people in what turned out to be his final mission before retirement, according to Pet Helpful. Tsunami and Beens both attended the statue’s unveiling.
Tsunami is part of a local search and rescue team, and Beens is founder and director of the Venezuelan canine search and rescue organization K-Sar Ecid. According to reporting by the Colombian magazine Semana in June, Tsunami’s own history was marked by hardship before he became a rescuer: he was pulled years ago from an abusive household.
After receiving veterinary care and going through a recovery process, Tsunami underwent specialized training that developed his search and rescue skills. Semana reported that over time he “demonstrated outstanding abilities to detect people and work in complex situations.”
That training and his sense of smell allow him to search hard-to-reach spaces in the rubble of collapsed buildings, where trapped survivors might otherwise go undetected.
“The history of Tsunami has also allowed us to reflect on the importance of the adoption and recovery of animals that are victims of abuse,” Semana wrote. “What was once a vulnerable dog in need of help, today has become an example of the positive impact that the care, patience and commitment of those who work for animal welfare can have.”
News of the statue’s unveiling spread on social media, drawing praise from commenters. One user, @kaylaxgallo, asked, “And the dog was present for the unveiling?” and added, “More news like this, please.” Another commenter, @paradiseonearth3312, said the ceremony was “exactly as it should be,” adding that “animals need to be recognized for their hard work and dedication too.”
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