A Texas National Guardsman has become an online sensation for saving 70 pets from the floods left by Hurricane Harvey
Josiah Meharg has warmed the hearts of more than 250,000 people who have shared images of the dogs, cats and the pig he has rescued in the path of destruction left by the horrifying storm.
‘This post was meant to be encouraging to those worried about the animals left behind,’ he told the Daily Dot.
Josiah Meharg, a Texas Army National Guard member, brought joy to the world when he shared a photo album to Imgur of animals he rescued from Harvey
The album – of several saved dogs, cats and one pig – quickly became viral and was viewed more than 250,000 time
‘Seeing so many people relieved has helped me cope with the ones we were too late to rescue or couldn’t reach.’
So far, Meharg has rescued pit bulls (including one named Wiggles) – German shepherds, Great Danes and Shih Tzus. He’s even managed to save a couple of cats as well.
The San Marcos, Texas, native traveled to Houston with a team of 12 on Saturday to help with rescue and relief.
He described the scenes in Houston as ‘catastrophic’.
‘The extent of the flood is beyond imagination. And only today [Wednedsay night] did the rain finally stop,’ he added.
‘We were soaked for days but didn’t let it get our spirits down.’
So far, Meharg has rescued pit bulls (including one named Wiggles), German shepherds, Great Danes and Shih Tzus
‘This post was meant to be encouraging to those worried about the animals left behind,’ he said to Daily Dot
The San Marcos, Texas, native traveled to Houston with a team of 12 on Saturday to help with rescue and relief
He added: ‘Seeing so many people relieved has helped me cope with the ones we were too late to rescue or couldn’t reach’
But through it all, he says that he is motivated by the spirit and resolve of the people of Houston.
‘Most people were reluctant to leave their homes. [There were] worried about looters and leaving everything they’ve worked for but once they were out of their neighborhoods and saw the massiveness of the floods they had a change of heart. Everyone we have picked up has been so brave,’ Meharg said.
‘No one seemed scared or panicked. Us Texans are strong and these people were a perfect example of that.’