Dozens of lives were lost and homes destroyed this week when a devastating landslide struck the village of Salgar in northern Colombia. But even amidst this immeasurable tragedy which has claimed so much, a symbol of hope has emerged in one extraordinary act of compassion.
Police had been scouring for signs of life along the rain-swollen Liboriana river, near where the disaster occurred, when they heard the faint cries of an animal in distress. Upon investigating, they discovered a dog who had become swept up by the raging torrent, struggling to keep his head afloat in the muddied waters, reports El Tiempo.
Although the situation seemed dire already for the animal, the rescue workers did not hesitate to do all they could to help him. They raced along the shore of the fast flowing river, refusing to let the drowning dog slip from their sight.
Once far enough ahead, one of the officers leapt into the water to pluck the dog to safety, at no small risk to his own.
Emerging from the water, the sopping wet dog seemed lifeless and stiff, but his rescuers still refused to give up on him. One of the officers pet and compressed the dog's torso, and they conducted an impromptu CPR effort in a hopeful attempt to coax him back to life.
Amazingly, and with great relief, their efforts paid off. Within moments the dog was back on his feet, attempting a few wobbly steps before being carried away for medical treatment.
The concerned officers all gathered around as the dog, who they have since named Prince, was attended to by a medic.
General Rodolfo Palomino, director of the Colombia's National Police, later confirmed on Twitter that Prince fully recovered from his near-death experience thanks to the dedication of the officers, adding that "every life is important."
It's unclear if Prince had been a stray, or if his human family was among those lost in the landslide, but he'll never want for love or affection again. If no one comes forward to claim him, the National Police says the dog will join them as an honorary K9 officer, working alongside those who saved his life.
