Airports are often filled with unexpected sights, but passengers at Tampa International Airport were in for a truly unique experience.
They witnessed an event unfold right before their eyes – a service dog named Eleanor Rigby, or Ellie, going into labor.
As passengers waited at Gate F80, the loyal and intelligent Labrador was about to become a mother.
Ellie, a beautiful Labrador, was accompanied by her owner, Diane Van Atter, and her mate, a Labrador named Golden Nugget.
The pregnant dog, much to everyone’s surprise, went into labor at the most unexpected time and place.
The airport terminal, usually filled with people engrossed in their devices or hurrying to their gates, was suddenly captivated by the miracle of birth unfolding before them.
As Ellie started giving birth, passengers were drawn away from their usual pre-flight activities.
Instead, they were enthralled by the spectacle of Ellie bringing new life into the world.
One passenger, who had been there since the birth of the fifth puppy, shared updates on Instagram, saying, “I was here since puppy five.
It’s on Instagram; We’re getting a lot of likes!”
Another passenger, Kristin Hamilton, also witnessed Ellie’s magical moment. She shared, “A Service Dog named Ellie, short for Eleanor Rigby caused quite a stir at Tampa airport yesterday.
The two-year-old yellow lab went into labor before boarding a plane to Philadelphia.
Tampa Fire Rescue delivered seven puppies; 6 girls and one boy. Congratulation to the new mom and safe travels.”
After a few hours, Ellie had given birth to eight puppies – seven males and one female.
Tampa Fire and Rescue were on hand to assist with the birth and ensure that everything went smoothly.
They closely monitored Ellie, ensuring her safety and health during the three-hour ordeal at Gate F80.
After the birth of the last puppy, all the newborns were checked and given a clean bill of health.
Paramedic Natalie Brown, who was present during the delivery, happily revealed to Fox News 13, “They have our names of course! And of course, the last one’s Natalie, it’s a girl!”
Her colleague, Larry Glanton, who was also nearby for the delivery, added, “And Number two is Larry.”
Ellie, and Golden Nugget missed their flight.
Most airlines have rules against allowing animals less than two days old to travel, and in some cases, the limit is two weeks.
So, Van Atter had no choice but to rent a car and drive home to Pennsylvania.
Despite the change in plans, Van Atter had the best company for her journey – ten incredibly cute dogs!
The video of this beautiful moment was posted online, and commenters were quick to weigh in.
Another user added, “What an example of the diversion…joyful!…of witnessing the miracle of…birth!”
This heartwarming story of Ellie giving birth at an airport terminal is a testament to the unexpected and beautiful moments that life can surprise us with.
Watch this unexpected event in the video below!
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Sources: Twitter , WeLoveAnimals
