For animal lovers, every pet is a hero. Our pets make us smile when we’re down, show us love and affection each day, and even help us stay healthy and live longer! ......
But over the years, certain pets have gone the extra mile for people in need, earning a special spot in the hearts of humans and places in the Zootoo hall of fame.

Parrot 911. Willie was never a particularly chatty bird, but when this parrot saw a toddler choking, he knew he had to speak up — quick. 2-year-old Hannah Kuusk began choking on a piece of Pop-Tart while her babysitter, Megan Howard, was out of sight in the bathroom. “I started hearing Willie go wild,” Howard reported. “He started screaming and flapping his wings.” With “serious panic in his voice,” the bird cried out, “Momma baby, momma baby” as an alert. The bird only calmed down when Howard rushed in and administered the Heimlich maneuver, rescuing Hannah. For his intuitive thinking and communication, Willie was awarded the Animal Lifesaver Award by Red Cross’ Denver, Colorado chapter, with the state’s Governor Bill Ritter standing by.

Mom’s “Furbaby” Saves Unborn Baby. When Jennifer Gosney, a Type 1 diabetic who was pregnant at the time, went to sleep with her French bulldog Bugsy by her side, she had no idea that having the pooch with her would save her life. During the night, Bugsy began frantically barking and scratching the door of Jennifer’s roommate, Mac. Thinking Bugsy just needed a bathroom break, Mac let him out, but Bugsy kept barking and jumping until Mac went into Jennifer’s room to make sure everything was all right. Finding Jennifer barely conscious and incoherent, Mac called for help. As soon as paramedics arrived, Bugsy became completely calm, and Jennifer went on to recover fully.

Big Cats, Big Hearts. Sometimes, being a hero just means providing comfort and warmth to those in need. For our country’s war heroes at the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Miami, two Maine Coon cats have made a big impact. Diesel and Charlie Girl, both stellar representatives of this large breed of feline, make therapy visits twice a month with their owners, the Muntz family. As registered “Pet Partners” through the Delta Society, these cats are a powerful team.

These fearless furry (and feathered!) friends prove that animals are more than just loyal and fun companions. Our pets are happy to show their love for us by being there when we need them the most.


Source: ZooToo