Deputy Sheriff Josh Fiorelli recently went viral for his acts of kindness on the job. On a cold winter day, he found himself caring for a dog, a creature far removed from his usual human interactions.
Carlos Irizzy was out for his daily walk when he noticed a police officer sitting in the grass, petting a white dog lying under his coat. This sweet pup had been hit by a car and had stumbled into the grass looking for a safe place to lay. Sheriff Fiorelli witnessed the tragic accident and rushed to the injured dog’s aid. Carlos Irizzy then captured the adorable moment, which quickly went viral.
The Sheriff immediately called animal control to report the accident, but he knew it would be several minutes before they arrived. He couldn’t bear the thought of this terrified pup waiting alone, so he stayed with her.
It was a cold and rainy day, so the poor dog was freezing cold on top of being injured. Fiorelli wrapped his coat around the shivering dog, hoping to make her as comfortable as possible in her desperate situation. The two sat side by side, waiting for assistance.
“It was cold out. She was wet. She didn’t have anyone there so I decided to be that person.” – Fiorelli
Osceola County Animal Services took in the injured dog and discovered she had a serious injury in one of her legs. Her hip had dislocated and needed surgery to be repaired. She was on her way to recovery thanks to the expert team at the Osceola Animal Shelter!
Sheriff Fiorelli captured the hearts of animal lovers all over the internet. He even caught PETA’s attention, and received a framed certificate, along with a batch of delicious vegan cookies.
“This police officer showed immense kindness by staying at this dog’s side and giving her some comfort when she was afraid and in severe pain. PETA hopes his actions will inspire people always to treat animals with care and compassion.” PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien
This injured pup now goes by the name of Fiona, and is still looking for her forever home! If you are near Osceola County, Florida and are looking for the perfect four legged friend, you can learn more about Fiona here.
Heartwarming photo. Thank you Sir. Kindness, compassion & caring are all free & make a huge difference to human & animal lives. So glad Fiona got the treatment she needed & recovered. Hopefully by now, not knowing how old this story actually is, she has found a forever home & is enjoying life. She could so easily have crawled away & died slowly, in pain without this wonderful police officer (I’m in U.K.)
Thanks for your service, Sir…to human beings and all other creatures too!