After last week’s devastating wildfires that are thought to have killed hundreds of animals in Greece, one dog has incredibly been found alive and — considering the circumstances — in remarkable health.
The dog, a poodle crossbreed, was found hiding in an outdoor oven in the coastal village of Mati approximately 18 miles northeast of Athens.
The pup was colored yellow from slight burns which included its eyelashes, and it also initially had trouble breathing.
Last week’s wildfire in Mati was one of two major infernos that ravaged coastal areas outside of Athens, claiming at least 91 lives and injuring hundreds.
Dozens of pet owners tragically lost their animal companions and scores of strays also died in the blazes.
The Facebook videos (below) of the dog’s rescue have received tens of thousands of views, showing the moment when an animal rescue volunteer warmly welcomed the pup to emerge from the dark oven corner where it had hidden.
Artemis Kyriakopoulou, a physiotherapy student from Athens, stumbled upon the animal while searching the fire-stricken town and lured it out with food.
“Hey sweetie,” Kyriakopoulou said to the pup as she spoke in a sweet tone. “Come [out]!”
The dog is thought to be a four-year-old stray, having now been cleaned and groomed as well as given a new name — Loukoumakis.
Kyriakopoulou shared an update Wednesday via Facebook in which she said a woman named Diana Topali is taking care of Loukoumakis until the pup finds a permanent home.
“Of course, we owe it all to the wonderful Diana Topali, who, when informed of the incident, opened her home and took care of Loukoumi as she would take care of her children and who continues to provide him hospitality and love to this day.”
She said that the dog remains in need of adoption, later adding that she has been touched by the thousands of people who have reached out in support.
“I cannot hide the emotion that the concern of thousands of people around the world about Loukoumis’ situation has evoked in me,” Kyriakopoulou said. “Τhank you all from the heart for all the love and support you [have given] me all this time.”
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