FOUR LEGGED HERO HERALDED
Los Angeles - Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) presented its 27 h Annual National Hero Dog Award to Miley a Terrier mix from Van Buren AR. The ceremony was held this morning at Star Plaza at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Stacie Pitts was fast asleep the night of December 7, 2008. Her 1 year-old Terrier mix, Miley, woke her up in the middle of the night, but Stacie went back to sleep. But Miley persisted. The second time Stacie awoke, she was overcome with nausea and suffering from a severe headache. She knew something was wrong. She roused her step-daughter and fiancé, Randy Childers. Both were experiencing the same symptoms. 911 was called and the family rushed to the hospital. There they discovered that each suffered from poisoning with carbon monoxide levels of 17-25. Without Miley, the family could have suffered severe brain damage or death.
"This is just one of the many examples demonstrating the strength of the human animal bond. Treating your pet with love and respect can be returned by amazing heroic acts by companion animals," said spcaLA President Madeline Bernstein. "Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, yet Miley either knew she didn't feel well, or sensed that her owner, Stacie wasn't well. Without Miley, Stacie and her family could have easily perished."
After the incident, Miley appeared fine and showed no outward signs of effects from the carbon monoxide. Just to be safe, Miley was checked out by spcaLA Director of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Karen Halligan when the pooch landed in Los Angeles Monday. Dr. Halligan gave Miley a thorough check-up including blood work. Dr. Halligan says that Miley is healthy and has no lasting effects from the incident.
The National Hero Dog Award going to Miley consists of a plaque from spcaLA and hotel accommodations donated by Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown Hotel . Miley also receives a gift basket and year's supply of California Natural brand pet food donated by Natura Pet Products . The Dodgers also offered the family tickets to last night's Dodgers vs. Mets game.
For more than two decades, spcaLA has recognized the heroic efforts of a dog that is a companion animal and not formally trained for rescues or law enforcement.
About spcaLA
Established in 1877, spcaLA is an independent, nonprofit animal welfare organization serving Southern California. There is no national SPCA, parent organization, or umbrella group that provides financial support to spcaLA. Donations run programs and services including Cruelty Investigation, Disaster Animal Response Team, Humane Education, and a variety of shelter services.
About Natura Pet Products
Founded in 1989 by John and Ann Rademakers and Peter Atkins, Natura is recognized as the most trusted name behind the healthiest dog and cat food products in the world. Natura's products are formulated, manufactured, and prepared to the highest standards of quality in the industry. Lines include: Innova, California Natural, EVO, HealthWise, Mother Nature, and Karma. For more information visit www.naturapet.com or call (800) 532-7261.
