Eleanor ‘Ellie’ Rigby and Nugget, both yellow Labradors serve as guide dogs. They were traveling with their owners, a woman, and her daughter, and about to board their flight to Philadelphia when Ellie went into labor.
The owners knew Ellie was pregnant, but never realized how close. With the help of Tampa Fire Rescue’s medical team, they started to deliver the puppies on the airport floor.
An air traveler’s service dog is delivering puppies now @FlyTPA We’re a full-service department! pic.twitter.com/4xlPixtcFn
— Tampa Fire Rescue (@TampaFireRescue) May 25, 2018
Yes, the family and their eight new additions, missed their flight. However, they now have 8 healthy puppies from Ellie and Nugget.
All done! #AirportPuppies @FlyTPA @CityofTampa pic.twitter.com/NIoXr0HCZW
— Tampa Fire Rescue (@TampaFireRescue) May 25, 2018