The initial months of 2023 proved (and continue to be) incredibly challenging for Turkey. Although certain regions of the nation were rattled by a succession of devastating earthquakes, the entire country bore the brunt of the impact. Additionally, the global community shared in their sorrow.
The toll of lives buried beneath the rubble surged to nearly 60,000, alongside substantial material damages and significant setbacks to the nation’s economy.
Although Turkey is still in the process of recuperating from this calamity, the world has not forgotten this remarkable nation.
Moreover, Turkey also remembers.
During the times of anguish, the entire international community stepped in to provide assistance in various forms. Mexico was among the countries that extended their support.
The South American nation dispatched Proteo, a fearless rescue canine who played a crucial role in locating numerous individuals who were unaccounted for. Sadly, Proteo lost his life during this mission, but his legacy endures.
To pay tribute to Proteo’s contributions and express everlasting appreciation to Mexico, the Turkish government sent a German Shepherd puppy… an excellent specimen poised to carry on Proteo’s commendable work.
One Notable Delivery
Having served Mexico for nine years in various search and rescue operations, Proteo performed admirably. His efforts in Turkey exceeded all anticipations. Consequently, the new puppy arriving in Mexico has a significant legacy to uphold.
The puppy has yet to receive a name; however, Mexico’s Ministry of Defence has initiated an online voting process for the public to select their preferred name for this newcomer.
The names up for consideration included: Proteo II, Arkadas (the Turkish term for “friend”), and Yardim (which translates to “help” in Turkish). Among these, Arkadas emerged as the clear favorite, leading to its selection.
The successor to Proteo was warmly welcomed on May 2nd, 2023. A delightful ceremony took place at the airport to commemorate his arrival.
We are all pawsitive that Arkadas will follow in the pawprints of Proteo… a courageous dog that made a mark in history.
READ MORE: Brave Search And Rescue Dogs Assisting In Türkiye And Syria