We’ve long heard how a dog is man’s best friend. But recently, the roles were reversed when a team from the city’s Animal Services Department came to the rescue of a canine trapped in a water run-off site. Here’s the story:
In late March, Animal Services Code Compliance officer David Davis responded to a request to help a dog that had fallen into a concrete channel. Davis found the dog trapped with its leash wrapped around a concrete block in a deep culvert. He called for backup officer assistance to aid in the rescue.
Officer Samantha Brinkmann arrived quickly and together they were able to get the trapped dog free, but they needed more assistance to get the dog out of the steep drainage area. Additional officer backup was called. Lead Officer Juan Santana with Officer Janna Pelster arrived on scene and helped pull the dog to safety.
The lost, rescued dog did not have a microchip, but the story does not end here. Brinkmann happened to notice a nearby sign posted about a lost dog, contacted the owner, and the result was a joyous reunion.
“We are focusing our efforts on keeping families together and keeping the community safe, which is exactly what they were able to do,” says Alexandria Pollard, Animal Services field administrative coordinator. “I know they felt they made a real impact on the life of the dog and made a family whole again.”
Coincidentally, the rescue occurred shortly before the city celebrated Animal Control Officer Appreciation last month. The dog rescue highlighted the valuable service provided by the department in helping injured animals, working with aggressive and loose animals, providing responsible pet ownership education, and more.
“Officers work hard at getting animals back home to avoid bringing them to the shelter,” says Field Operations Manager Ray Rentschler. “They want to keep families together.”
Animal Services is experiencing a high intake level of dogs, and encourages the community to license, vaccinate, and microchip their pets. Low-cost vet services are available through community partner, Texas Coalition for Animal Protection.
arlingtontx.gov/city_hall/departments/animal_services
