Dog Receives PETA Award for Saving Guardian Who Was Having a Heart Attack

Rescued Dog Returns the Favor

For Immediate Release:
September 12, 2014

Contact:
Alexis Sadoti 202-483-7382

On September 5, High Point resident Ron Weatherford awoke to find his adopted dog, Hendrix, licking his face. Weatherford was having a heart attack, and Hendrix woke him up just in time for him to dial 911 for help. When paramedics arrived, Weatherford had to be revived with chest compressions and shock paddles. Without Hendrix, Weatherford doesn’t believe he would have woken up to call 911. For saving his guardian’s life, Hendrix will receive a Heroic Dog Award from PETA.

Hendrix was adopted from the Guilford County Animal Shelter 15 years ago. Weatherford says that Hendrix may have been the “rescue” at first, but now he has returned the favor.

“Animal shelters everywhere are full of smart and loving dogs like Hendrix who would make loyal companions if only someone would give them the chance,” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, and it might even save yours one day, too.”

PETA is sending Hendrix a framed certificate, a “doggie” bag full of toys and treats, a comfortable harness to wear on walks, and a “Who Adopted Who?” T-shirt for Weatherford.

PETA, whose motto includes “animals are not ours to abuse in any way,” encourages anyone with the time, willingness, ability, and resources to care for a dog properly to adopt from a shelter, rather than contributing to the homeless-animal crisis by buying from a breeder or a pet store.

As a tax-exempt charity, PETA does not endorse or oppose any political party or candidate for public office.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.