Dog Rescued From Cali Earthquake Debris Fuels Family's Hope

In the midst of devastation, a small spark of hope emerged from the earthquake-ravaged city of Cali, Colombia, with the miraculous rescue of a dog named Antonio. Rescuers found the canine alive nearly 48 hours after he was trapped under the collapsed Torres del Limonar apartment building.

Antonio's discovery, made early Wednesday morning, was a moment of celebration for those tirelessly sifting through tons of twisted metal and concrete. He was found more than nine meters deep within the debris, in a clear space beneath the destroyed structure. Volunteers heard and saw movement, leading them to the dog's location after hours of difficult work.

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The puppy was assisted by our veterinarians, who gave him fluids and medication to hydrate him. His health condition is stable.

The dog sustained injuries to one of his legs and several scrapes but survived thanks to the immediate care provided by veterinarians from Cali's Animal Welfare Center (CBA). He was stabilized with medication and hydration at a makeshift camp in a neighboring home and remains under observation. Veterinarians are also working to locate another family pet, Copito, who may also have survived.

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Animals are beings that also feel, that deserve to be treated with love and cared for with all capabilities like humans.

For Camila Sepúlveda, Antonio's owner, the dog's rescue is deeply intertwined with her hope for her missing family members. Her mother, Luz Adriana Correa, and grandmother, Mélida Betancourt, lived in the family home, which was completely destroyed. Sepúlveda clings to the belief that if Antonio is safe, her mother and grandmother, with whom the dog was always present, are also well.

"The puppy was assisted by our veterinarians, who gave him fluids and medication to hydrate him. His health condition is stable," explained veterinarian Martín Ortiz of the CBA. Ortiz emphasized the sentience of animals, stating, "Animals are beings that also feel, that deserve to be treated with love and cared for with all capabilities like humans."

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If Antonio is well, I know that my mom and my grandmother are well. He was with them, I am sure, he never left them alone.