September 19, 2017 will forever be etched in the history of Mexico City and all of Mexico. Sadly, this day will forever be remembered as one of the most difficult days this country has ever experienced. What was initially supposed to be a beautiful summer day turned into a devastating disaster that threw the capital and other states into chaos. A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake shook the country, destroying buildings and killing hundreds. As is often the case, when the going gets tough, you stand up strong.
Meet Frida, the Mexican Navy’s rescue dog, a beacon of hope and a four-legged national hero. Frida uses her strong sense of smell and keen abilities to save dozens of people trapped in the rubble after an earthquake killer.
National symbols and inspiration
Photo of Frida in the lab wearing glasses
Frida, then a 7-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, used her training to save 12 lives and discover more than 40 bodies, more than any other search and rescue dog. be.
This rather historic undertaking earned him fame on social networks and the title of symbol of hope and Mexican pride. Frida truly has the title of national hero, so her wonderful achievements will be remembered for many years.
“Frida, you’re a hero without a cape, more than Superman, no doubt”, says the song written in Frida’s honor and as a way of thanking this beautiful soul with a heart of gold.
The Bark Of Hope
Midst all the darkness and sorrow, Frida was truly the light at the end of a tunnel for many.
Dressed in, now already iconic, custom googles and little rubber booties, mighty Frida assisted in search and rescue efforts and helped sniff out the victims. She and her handler, Israel Arauz, worked tirelessly day after day to find survivors. Frida was seen running heroically toward the rubble every time her help was needed. Eleven children were rescued at the place where Frida mostly helped. Her bark was not any more just a form of communication, but a tiny spark of hope, a hope that another soul will be saved. Frida melted hearts and helped change the way the world viewed dogs. To all Mexicans and many people around the globe, dogs were not any more just furry pets, but intelligent, heroic creatures that humans did not deserve. Frida, the true inspiration and the symbol of everlasting friendship between dogs and humans, helped millions of people understand how important our four-legged companions can really be.
A Send-off Fit For A Hero
After serving 10 years for the Navy of Mexico, helping save dozens of people in Mexico’s deadly earthquake, as well as engaging in rescue work in Haiti and Ecuador, Frida retired in 2019. A full ceremony with a standing ovation was held in her honor by the Mexican Marines.
Frida proved that there is always hope and that we should never give up. She earned respect, admiration, and affection of the whole world.
Frida will never be forgotten. This truly golden girl will forever be edged in the hearts of those that she brought comfort to.
Sadly, in November 2022, at the age of 13, this beloved hero and a legend died of an illness typical for senior dogs.
She might be gone, but her memory will live forever. The smiley pup will forever be remembered as the symbol of the Mexican Navy and a beautiful dog that rose above the challenge, helped save precious lives, and brought respect to all canine units.
In tribute to her extraordinary work, a statue of Frida wearing her special rescue uniform, googles, and little booties was placed outside the Mexican Navy’s offices.
#HastaSimpreFrida
Thank you for your service and your amazing work. You will forever live in our hearts.
