IRVING, Texas - An Irving woman reunited with the first responders who saved her life as Medical City Las Colinas marked National Love Your Pet Day by honoring both emergency crews and the family dog credited with triggering a lifesaving response.
Amita Rama, 56, suffered a cardiac arrest at her Irving home in November 2025. According to family members, her dog Raya began barking persistently, alerting Rama’s husband, Hitesh, who was upstairs at the time.
“Raya started barking and barking. My husband was upstairs and only came down because he heard her,” Rama said.
Hitesh Rama found his wife unconscious on the kitchen floor, called 911, and began hands-only CPR. Irving Fire Department crews from Station 12 arrived within minutes and continued resuscitation efforts. After approximately seven minutes of lifesaving care, including the use of an automated external defibrillator, Rama’s heart began beating again.
She was transported to Medical City Las Colinas, where she was stabilized in the emergency department.
Rama attended a ceremony at the hospital where six Irving Fire/EMS personnel were presented 2026 Life Saver awards recognizing their role in the emergency response. She expressed gratitude to both the responders and her dog, an Australian Shepherd mix.
“She always gets extra treats from me,” Rama said.
On this Love Your Pet Day, Medical City Las Colinas is also paying tribute to the healthy bond between people and pets. In this case, rapid intervention from a loving husband, coordinated care between the Irving Fire Department and Medical City Las Colinas, along with one incredible dog made a lifesaving difference.
Medical City Las Colinas encourages residents to learn more about their heart health and the cardiovascular program.
About Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood into the brain and body, causing collapse. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 90% of cardiac arrests result in death. Outcomes depend heavily on how quickly CPR and defibrillation are provided.
