The São Pedro da Cova Volunteer Firefighters, located in Gondomar, mourned the death of their first search and rescue dog, aged 15, on Sunday.
“With great sorrow, we wish to pay a final tribute to our beloved Meggy, the first search and rescue dog to join our Fire Brigade. Meggy was adopted in March 2011 by our firefighter Cláudio Pinto and was officially registered in the Fire Brigade in 2012,” the entity stated on Facebook.
The brigade noted that Meggy became “a true symbol of courage and dedication due to her demeanor and work ethic” and “not only saved lives but also brought smiles everywhere she went.”
The dog stood out in “dozens of missions,” including “searches in large areas and rescues in the Douro River, in Monção, Guarda, Valongo, Tondela, and even the Peneda-Gerês National Park, where she helped locate a tourist couple.”
“Her dedication and talent in missions never ceased to impress. Besides rescue missions, Meggy was a constant presence in awareness actions in schools, nurseries, day centers, and institutions supporting people with disabilities. She won the hearts of children and adults with her joy and affection, demonstrating the impact a service animal can have on people’s lives,” remarked the São Pedro da Cova Volunteer Firefighters.
The organization also highlighted that “Meggy never hesitated to give her best,” despite “many kilometers traveled, countless hours of training, some physical challenges, and even limb fractures and paw injuries.”
“She was not just a volunteer but a true heroine, dedicating her life to the mission of saving and serving,” it added.
The brigade announced that Meggy would be at the station this Monday, from 14:00 to 17:30, for a final farewell.
“Although saying goodbye is painful, we know her legacy of courage, professionalism, and affection will remain with us forever. Meggy will always be remembered as a symbol of unconditional love, loyalty, and bravery,” it concluded.
