They reported poor health to Frida, the rescue dog of SEMAR

Frida, the rescue dog of the Mexican Armed Forces, became an emblem of the whole world during her heroic deeds in the earthquake that struck Mexico in 2017.

Unfortunately, the Mexican Navy Secretariat (SEMAR) reported that Frida, the dog emblematic of the canine rescue squad, is in poor health, although no further details were offered.

Frida, a Labrador breed, participated since 2010, in various rescues around the world. These include the earthquake in Haiti in the year it began to serve, a disastrous earthquake in Ecuador in 2016, the explosion of the Pemex Tower in 2013, and the earthquakes of September 9 and 17, 2017. In his work at SEMAR, he managed to find 53 people.

The canine element was part of a squad of 270 dogs that were trained to search and rescue people in disaster situations and areas. Other canines who became recognized figures in Mexico were the German shepherds Eco and Evil, who accompanied Frida in the earthquake two years ago.

Dogs are trained from the earliest stages of their lives. They have to search for objects in hidden places and move between obstacles such as fire, noise of engines, hammers hitting, and collapses. The instructions given to them are in German, as it is the universal language for training pets.

From the age of 14 months they can start taking part in rescues in real situations, always in company with their coaches. The connection between human and animal is essential for the elements to be effective, which is why they are called canine binomials, since they must always be together during rescues.

It was on June 24, 2019 when the Secretariat of the Navy reported the withdrawal of the tactical team to the canine element Frida and the delivery of a toy symbolizing the beginning of his new life.

The ceremony was held within the framework of the International Day of the Rescuer, where a well-deserved tribute was paid to those nationally and internationally who carry out the noble work of saving lives.

During the event, a record of permanent custody of the canine was handed over to the Canine Control Subgroup of the Third Section of the General Staff of the Mexican Navy.

At 10 years, 2 months and 12 days old, Frida's characteristic vest that accompanied her in the rescue activities was withdrawn from Frida. Maestro Israel Arauz Salinas, coach of the dog, also received recognition.

Admiral Eduardo Redondo Arámburo, Undersecretary of the Navy, was present at the venue, who said that “it is always a source of great satisfaction to have the opportunity to give a well-deserved recognition to those who excel in the performance of their duty, especially when it comes to Mexicans who give everything for their nation”.

He also added that it is the canine pairs that let us know with their actions during natural disasters and national emergencies that there is always a hope to hold on to.

In addition to Frida, during the ceremony, the work of the Canine Unit, the USAR group and the SEMAR Fire Department were celebrated, whose members dedicate their lives to the service of others.

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