Myriam Ortellado, who leads the rescue team, explained, “We tried everything—special soaps, care products—but nothing worked. Finally, someone suggested using cooking oil and a spatula.”
It took five long hours of careful, patient work to remove the tar. The dog, whom the volunteers named Petróleo (Spanish for “petroleum”), stayed calm through it all, despite clearly being exhausted. By the end of the cleaning, he had fallen asleep in the bathtub.
But the rescue team’s work wasn’t over. There were concerns that the tar might have caused poisoning or other health issues. Fortunately, Petróleo responded well to treatment, and soon he was resting comfortably and eating again.
Petróleo’s story is one of resilience—and of the incredible kindness of strangers. The two young men who found him, and the volunteers who spent hours saving him, refused to give up. Their compassion made all the difference.
Now, Petróleo is on the road to recovery and searching for a forever home filled with care and love. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of animal rescue organizations and everyday people who choose to help.
If you ever see an animal in distress, don’t hesitate to report it. Every act of compassion matters—and can save a life.
If this story inspired you, consider sharing it to raise awareness for animal rescue and the importance of kindness.