Canelo, a mixed-breed terrier known for his reddish coat, was a loyal dog who waited for 12 years outside a hospital for his deceased owner. Therefore, he stands out as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. This loyal dog became a beloved figure in Cadiz. And his story has now inspired a short film set to premiere on YouTube.
Canelo’s story begins with a simple promise. His owner, who suffered from a severe kidney condition, would frequently visit the hospital for treatment. On one fateful visit, the owner never returned, having passed away during his stay. Yet, Canelo waited. Day after day, year after year, he returned to the hospital’s entrance, hoping for his master’s return. The people of Cádiz, touched by his devotion, provided Canelo with food, water, and makeshift beds to ensure his comfort.
‘King of unwavering loyalty’
Canelo was taken to an animal shelter twice due to concerns over hygiene. However, he always found his way back to the hospital. Attempts to adopt him also failed, as he remained steadfast in his mission. His loyalty earned him the titles of “king of unwavering loyalty” and “the firmest guardian of a promise never made but understood.”
Tragic ending
Canelo’s wait came to a tragic end on 9 December 2002, when he was struck by a car. However, his legacy did not end there. In 2004, the people of Cádiz, along with local organisations, successfully petitioned the city council to name a street after Canelo. Today, a plaque near the hospital reads: “To Canelo, who for 12 years waited at the hospital doors for his deceased owner. The people of Cádiz in tribute to his loyalty. May 2004.”
Canelo’s legacy lives on
Canelo’s story continues to resonate, not just in Cádiz, but around the world. In a fitting tribute to his devotion, ANIMAGic Studios, an American animation company, has created a short film that tells Canelo’s tale. Directed by Jordi Ayguasenosa, who discovered the story online, the film will be released on YouTube on 26 August, coinciding with International Dog Day.
The production of the short film took about a year, with the team pouring their hearts into the project. “We wanted to celebrate the love, loyalty, and companionship that dogs offer,” Ayguasenosa told Canal Sur. The film, which already has a trailer available on YouTube, aims to bring Canelo’s story to a global audience, ensuring that his legacy of loyalty is remembered for generations to come.