Mexico’s army has a new furry friend: a three-month-old German Shepherd puppy named Arkadas, which means “friend” in Turkish. The puppy was donated by the Turkish government as a gesture of gratitude and solidarity following the death of a Mexican rescue dog named Proteo, who was killed while searching for survivors of a devastating earthquake that struck near the Syrian border in February.
Proteo was one of the dogs that Mexico sent to Turkey to help with the rescue efforts after the magnitude 7.8 quake that killed at least 54,000 people across both countries. He was honored with a military funeral in Mexico earlier this year. “Proteo was a hero who gave his life to save others. He will always be remembered and honored by our army and our people,” said General Luis Cresencio Sandoval, Mexico’s defense minister.
Arkadas will be trained by the same trainer who cared for Proteo, and will join Mexico’s renowned canine unit that specializes in locating survivors during natural disasters. “Arkadas is a gift from our Turkish friends who appreciate our help and support. He will be a great addition to our team and our family,” said Sergeant Juan Carlos Hernandez, Arkadas’ trainer.
Arkadas was welcomed to his new home in a formal ceremony at a military base in Mexico City on Wednesday, where he met his new canine and human colleagues. He wore a green harness with a tiny Mexican flag and barked as the national anthem played. The Mexican defense ministry tweeted on his behalf: “Thanks to my friends from Mexico who welcomed me with great affection, I promise to do my best to be a great search and rescue dog.”
The puppy’s name was chosen by an online vote, and reflects the friendship and cooperation between Turkey and Mexico. The two countries have been supporting each other during difficult times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent migrant crisis. Arkadas is expected to become a valuable member of Mexico’s army and a symbol of hope and resilience for both nations.
The earthquake that claimed Proteo’s life was one of the deadliest in recent history, affecting millions of people in Turkey and Syria. The quake caused widespread damage to buildings, infrastructure and historical sites, and triggered landslides and floods. Mexico was one of the first countries to offer assistance and send rescue teams to the affected areas. The Mexican dogs helped locate dozens of survivors trapped under the rubble, as well as recover bodies of the victims.
