Mexico says its final farewell to Frida the heroic dog
Frida, the rescue dog who became a national sensation during the aftermath of the 2017 Mexico City earthquake, has passed away.
Frida retired from active service in 2019 at the age of 10 and was 13 when she died. Her remains are to be cremated and placed at the base of a statue in her honor in Mexico City.
Frida was specially trained by Mexico’s armed forces to seek out individuals injured during natural disasters.
Wearing her signature protective goggles, Frida became a beacon of hope and rallying point for rescue efforts after several disasters.
Over her career, Frida is credited with rescuing 12 people and helping to recover over 40 bodies.
Earlier: 3.9 quake on the Yucatán Peninsula leaves no injuries or damage
“Our beloved Frida. Though your departure leaves us scarred we vow to honor your memory, loyalty, sacrifice, and love. Thank you for serving Mexico; you will always be in our hearts,” said a message sent over social media by Mexico’s armed forces.
Since the news broke Tuesday, tributes to Frida have poured in from around the world.
Frida’s death is also being used by several animal shelters to help promote the responsible adoption of dogs across the country.
Senior Editor Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican expedition/Canadian photographer and adventure leader. Born in Mérida, Carlos holds multimedia, philosophy, and translation degrees from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
