On March 25, 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,” said 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.” 

Animal Control Officer Appreciation week is celebrated April 10-16 this year. We want to express special appreciation to our exceptional field and shelter staff. The dog rescue highlighted in this article is just one example of why we especially want to recognize the valuable work performed by this dedicated team. They help injured animals, work with aggressive and loose animals, provide responsible pet ownership education, and much more.

“Officers work hard at getting animals back home to avoid bringing them to the shelter,” said Field Operations Manager Ray Rentschler. “They want to keep families together.”

Animal Services is currently experiencing a high intake level of dogs, and encourages the community to license, vaccinate, and microchip their pets. A simple scan of a microchip containing current owner information makes for many more happy reunions. Low-cost vet services are available through community partner, Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) in Arlington. 

If you have lost a dog, cat or other animal, check the shelter’s stray pets’ webpage. The Lost & Founds Pets page offers PawBoost to report lost or found pets to help pet owners reunite with their treasured best friends. 

Special appreciation to Senior Officer Amy Scott for the photo documentation of this event, and congratulations to officers Santana, Pelster, Brinkmann, and Davis for this amazing dog rescue and to all the shelter’s officers for the care and compassion they demonstrate every day.