Bert Fritz, a passionate science teacher at Champaign’s Next Generation Science School, hails from Brazil. With great enthusiasm, he launched a unique initiative aimed at sparking a lifelong passion. As fate would have it, his journey took him to the picturesque Kaufma¿ Lake, where he stumbled upon an endearing community of dogs. Among them was Doųy, a charming black and white puppy, who seemed to be his guiding light, celebrated for his swimming prowess, and found solace in a cozy dog shelter.
Fritz was the first person to spot the fish in the lake, where only Dolly’s head was visible above the freezing waters. Hey there, adorable pup. He gave me an enthusiastic kiss, which immediately resulted in him catching a cold. Fritz quickly removed his outermost garment, stepped into the icy lake, and proceeded to gently clean the motionless dog. Fritz remarks, “I can clearly identify the partially submerged lifeless body, with its head above water and the rest of its body frozen by the extremely cold depths.” The decision to construct the wall around the lake was a logical and practical one.
On this chilly winter day, Fritz made a spontaneous decision. He took off his sweaters and ventured deep into the lake, around 15 to 20 yards away. It was clear that Dory had been in the freezing water for hours. Fritz swiftly rescued her, pulling her and the crate she was in out of the water to safety. However, it soon became evident that Dory had endured a severe ordeal. “There was blood everywhere,” Fritz recounted. “She had fur missing on her back, her paws were in bad condition, and she was visibly suffering, trembling and with her eyes tightly closed.”
Without any delay, Fritz immediately contacted the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the University of Illinois, informing them of the urgent situation. On his way there, he carefully wrapped Dory in a blanket to provide her with some warmth. Upon arriving at the hospital, spokesperson Chris Beuoy updated that Dory was responding well to the treatments administered for her hypothermia, wounds, and other injuries. These treatments included antibiotics and pain medication. Beuoy added, “Initially, we were unsure of the level of care required for her wounds, but she has received comprehensive treatment.”
During Dory’s continued recovery, Fritz, overcome with hope and affection, expressed his desire to welcome her into his family. “After completing the necessary paperwork at the hospital, it suddenly struck me that I wanted her to be part of my life,” he shared. Inspired by Dory’s resilience, he and his girlfriend Krystal found themselves drawn to her, just like the beloved Disney character from “Finding Nemo”, known for her unwavering spirit. “Dory exhibited remarkable strength, much like her namesake, in that lake,” Fritz reflected.
Fritz’s spontaneous act of bravery not only saved Dory’s life but also opened the door to a new and loving chapter in both their lives, showcasing the profound bond between humans and animals.
