Era, a 3 and a half year old Czechoslovakian she-wolf, wins the 2023 International Dog Loyalty Award. The recognition came during the 62nd edition of the event, which takes place annually on 16 August in San Rocco of Camogliin Liguria. In addition to Era, other four-legged pets have been recognized for the vital role they play in rescue and law enforcement support.
The Story of Hera
Hera rescued an unconscious man along a mountain path. Sensing his presence, she drew the attention of her owner Sara, causing her to notice him and call for help. The story dates back to December 31, 2022. That day, Era, Sara and her father were starting a journey that leads to the Capanna 2000 refuge, above the town of Oltre il Colle (Val Seriana). Arrived at a point where there was no one, Sara free of her It was of her from her leash to make her play in the snow.
At one point the she-wolf freezes and looks behind them. Sara does not give weight to the thing and she continues the journey. Then Hera walks in the opposite direction from Sara and starts whimpering, then comes back to her but keeps pacing. Unable to stop her, Sara follows and notices an unconscious man on the ground. The VI Orobic Delegation of Alpine Rescue and the CNSAs helicopter rescue intervene on the spot. The man, Valter Andreoli, is transported to the hospital and is saved thanks to Era's intuition.
The other winners
In addition to Era, four other dogs were awarded ex aequo: Cobadog, Drago, Margo and Zeus, respectively 4, 6, 4 year old Belgian Malinois and 4 and a half year old border collie. The four-legged dogs are the dog units of the Tuscany Regional Dog Nucleus - Fire Brigade sent together with the USAR teams of Tuscany in the International Rescue Mission following the earthquake in Turkey.
An acknowledgment also went to Brady, a little over 2 years old golden retriever, who was crowned together with Miss Dallas Teen USA 2022. With her guide dog at her side, the teenager suffering from epilepsy participates and wins the contest, encouraging people with disabilities to realize the own dreams.
The Goodness Award for humans of good will
The Goodness Award was instead assigned to humans. Its purpose is to nurture the culture of responsibility and respect for all forms of life. There are among the awardees Almo Nature – Capellino Foundation; Antonella Gallini; Don Cosimo Schena, pastor of the parish of San Francesco di Assisi in Brindisi; Paula Milanese; Oasis of the stray; Monica Picchedda; The paw to underline the importance of correct information and awareness on these issues.
(Photo: Giovanni Toti Facebook page; Municipality of Camogli)
