News Channel 8 reporter Melissa Marino was recognized Monday for her coverage of a story that tugged at the heartstrings of animal lovers across the Tampa Bay area.
While covering Hurricane Irma’s aftermath in Polk County, Melissa and her photographer Jamie Cook came across several dogs that had been left behind by their owners.
Thousands of people watched on Facebook live as Melissa reported on a group of neighbors who tried to rescue the dogs. Concerned citizens who were following the live stream even showed up at the home with water, treats and food for the dogs.
Melissa and Jamie stayed at the scene until animal control officers eventually rescued the dogs and took them to Polk County Animal Control.
Several weeks later, Melissa followed up with SPCA Florida and was invited to come and visit the dogs. Then, in January, she reported on the dogs again when they were ready for adoption.
On Monday, the SPCA Florida surprised Melissa with a Community Hero Award for her coverage of the dogs. The Board of Directors recognized her “for her heroic involvement and determination to save the abandoned Walker Road dogs from Hurricane Irma flood waters.”
