CEBU CITY, Philippines: A four-year-old “hero dog” is recovering at a veterinary clinic after he tried to protect his family during the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu earlier this week.
Luke is described as an ‘aspin’ (native dog) whose father is a golden retriever.
According to a rescue organisation, Hope for Strays, Luke ran towards the danger instead of fleeing when the earthquake struck.
He positioned himself between his family and falling debris from their collapsed home, sparing them from serious harm.
While the family members sustained only minor injuries, Luke took the brunt of the impact. His lower body was crushed under debris, leaving him unable to walk at the time he was found.
Luke’s story quickly went viral, with the first post about his heroism drawing over 11,000 reactions and more than 1,700 shares.
Supporters and animal lovers have since flooded social media with messages of healing and encouragement for Luke, as they recognised his bravery and loyalty in the face of disaster.
Several animal rescue groups also shared the post, amplifying the call for donations to support his treatment.
Rescuers reported that Luke was retrieved around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, two days after the earthquake happened.
He was transported to a veterinary clinic in Danao City in northern Cebu, arriving at around 1 a.m. where he was given immediate medical care.
The three-hour journey was difficult, with Luke only being able to sit and lie down due to his injuries.
“When we traveled to Danao, he just sat for the whole three hours,” Hope for Strays said in an interview.
As of Sunday, October 5, veterinarians confirmed to Hope for Strays that Luke is responsive and has a healthy appetite despite his condition.
Early findings showed that while he is able to stand, the veterinarians are worried over possible nerve damage in his pelvic area, which caused him to be still under close observation.
He has undergone initial veterinary examinations, including X-rays and further tests, to assess the extent of his injuries. His rescuers assured that he was now safe in the clinic, receiving the care he needed.
“Luke is the true definition of a hero,” read one update posted about him.
“He sustained injuries in the process, but the good news is he is now safe. He deserves all the rest and recovery in the world,” said Hope for Strays. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
