On June 16, a passerby witnessed the heartbreaking scene and immediately called for help. The Phoenix Fire Department and Arizona Humane Society (AHS) Emergency Animal Medical Technician Hunter Stribling quickly arrived to help. They developed a rescue plan that involved using a ladder and AHS rescue tools to safely reach the struggling dog. According to an AHS press release, the 10-year-old dog, who has since been named Dorothea, had “little to no chance of survival” without their intervention.
The details of how Dorothea ended up in the canal remain a mystery, but what was clear was that she had endured significant hardship. The rescue teams collaborated, utilizing a ladder and various rescue tools to reach Dorothea, who was understandably frightened. They gently maneuvered the cart toward the edge of the canal, secured Dorothea, and lifted her to safety on dry ground. Once she realized she was finally out of danger, her tail began wagging non-stop.
Once back at the center, the AHS veterinary team conducted a thorough medical assessment and found that Dorothea was dehydrated, hungry, and infested with ticks. Fortunately, her injuries were relatively minor, though she did require dental treatment to remove some fractured teeth. The organization noted that she was in “otherwise great health given the circumstances.”
Now safe and recovering, Dorothea’s personality began to shine. The Arizona Humane Society shared in a press release that during her month-long stay at the shelter, she was treated to a spa day by the AHS groomer and showed herself to be a gentle and affectionate soul who loved cuddles and human attention.
Dorothea’s journey has culminated in the best outcome possible: she has found a forever home. AHS confirmed that she has been adopted and is now thriving with her new family in Youngtown, Arizona. This sweet senior dog will now spend her golden years surrounded by love and care, finally experiencing the peace and happiness she deserves.