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Hurricane Georges barreled into Puerto Rico last September, ripping trees from the ground, knocking down homes, and claiming many lives. But out of mother nature's fury came incredible stories of survival. Not just human ones.
Carol Wilkinson, Owner: "There's no way to know if a tree fell on him, car ran him over. They just don't know." What they do know is that Daniel wound up in the eye of the storm without shelter or a family to care for him. By the time someone found him, Daniel was in dire need of help. Wilkinson: "Femur, bumping spine, leg was completely twisted around, only way to save him was to remove his leg." Daniel lost his leg, but he was one of the lucky ones. Wilkinson: "They were in such bad shape, only thing to do was to euthanize them."
Wilkinson: "With those eyes...it's...he's really special." Daniel's been part of Carol's furry family ever since. Pretty soon, Daniel will return some of the tender loving care he received here in the states. Carol's dream is for him to help children who have lost their own limbs. Wilkinson: "He's a survivor, a gentle survivor, and I think he would be a good example for children to say you can do this too." Daniel has already inspired Carol, who herself is dealing with a health problem. Recently, Carol was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Wilkinson: "He's got to stay with me, won't leave my side." Daniel has already been trained as a therapy dog for adults. Last month, he visited New Hampshire to work with patients who are recovering from car accidents. Soon Daniel will begin his pediatric training. ©1999 WTNH/WTNH-DT |
Dog proves inspiration to others
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Daniel is an adorable 2-year-old mixed breed. Like many dogs, Daniel is playful and energetic, so it's hard to believe he's endured so much trauma.
Carol Wilkinson, an animal control officer in Killingworth, worked as a volunteer in Puerto Rico for a local animal shelter. After Daniel's surgery, she was supposed to find a family to adopt him, but that face was hard to resist.