Man Hospitalized With COVID-19 Symptoms Sends Desperate Plea To Sheriff’s Office To Rescue His Dog

Countless dogs and cats are being abandoned by their families due to the coronavirus. Some people are surrendering their pets because of fear or after losing their jobs, but other pets are being left behind in their homes when their humans are hospitalized.

A Florida man was hospitalized after presenting symptoms linked to COVID-19. Aside from the stress of battling the virus, the man was concerned about his beloved German Shepherd that he left behind on his live-aboard boat.

The man sent a desperate plea to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office asking them to please rescue his dog. He said he had no other choice but to leave the sweet dog behind. Thankfully, the marine unit and Animal Services Officers immediately went to rescue the dog.

The officers dressed in protective gear against the virus and then boarded the boat anchored in the Manatee Pocket. They found the German Shepherd in good health and brought her ashore. The dog was surely relieved to be on solid ground again and on her best behavior. Animal Service Officers brought the dog to a facility where she will remain until her dad recovers.

The Sheriff’s Office posted, “Nice work by an amazing team dedicated to getting the job done, despite the circumstances.”

Thousands of people congratulated the officers on the rescue and thanked them for saving the dog. One person wrote, “Thank you! You guys are amazing! I would be so distraught if I were in that patient’s situation…Thank you for taking care of man’s best friend, and putting that patient at ease during an incredibly stressful time. So happy to see you guys were provided equipment and able to keep yourselves safe, too!”

Others offered to provide food for the dog and wished her dad a speedy recovery. “Such a nice job. Prayers for the gentleman in the hospital. There really are still people that think of their animal as a child. Only wanted the best for his dog!”

This dog was lucky and people came to her rescue, but there are so many others that are in desperate need of help. Animal shelters are trying to save abandoned dogs and reassure the public that they cannot catch the coronavirus from their dog or cat.