Gabe Castellanos, 38, had no clue when he woke up on his birthday that he’d be lauded as a media superstar by the end of the day, but that’s exactly what happened.
Gabe was enjoying his outdoor birthday party near New York’s East River when he noticed a commotion on the water. When he turned to face the source of the disturbance, he saw a black and white canine struggling to keep afloat in the water.
Gabe sprang into action as terrified passers-by looked on as the poor dog struggled. He dashed for the pier, pulling his pants down to his underpants and donning a life jacket before diving into the ocean.
He tried to swim to the terrified pup and tried to snare her, but she snapped and smelled his face and hand. Ignoring his own blood and anguish, he pushed the canine till he reached the safety of the reinforcement.
Bystanders cheered the two on, and a helicopter can be seen flying above the canine aid. Once onshore, the canine was eventually reunited with her owner, and the whole story of her sad and vital day was revealed.
Harper, the canine, is said to have escaped from her canine perambulator after it was hit by a car. No one knows how she wound herself in the swash, but thanks to Gabe’s frivolity, she was saved from drowning.
Gabe credits his ability to save the dog to ocean survival skills he learned in council. He, too, did not escape harm’s way. He has a bite mark on his palm and face, and the canine has knocked him in the teeth, so he is now experiencing dental form.
We’re sad Gabe was harmed, but we’re relieved Harper is fine. Her owner is grateful for all Gabe did that day, and we’re sure Harper is, as well.
Watch the video below!
