Cape Coral firefighters rescue dog from canal
Man’s best friend got a couple of friends of his own after a dog ended up in a Cape Coral canal and was unable to get out.
Around 1 p.m. Wednesday, CCFD Engine 3 was dispatched to the 2300 block of Southeast 27th Terrace for a report of a dog in the canal that was having difficulties.
According to CCFD Lt. Kevin Haynes, when crews arrived they found a resident in the canal helping keep the dog’s head above water. The dog appeared exhausted from trying to swim but unable to get out of the water due to a seawall around the end of the canal with an overhang and no way for the dog to climb out.
Firefighters Robert Willaford and Matthew D-Andrea entered the water and helped the dog up and out.
“The dog was in good health minus a few minor injuries from his trip in the canal,” said Haynes in a prepared statement. “Firefighters Willaford and D-Andrea did a great job.”
Animal Services arrived and was able to identify the dog’s name as “Bob” and owners based on electronic chip implanted behind the dog’s head.
Cape Coral reminds pet owners that animals, much like small children, can fall victim to hazards in and around the home.
“Many pets are considered members of the family, and as a result it can be a personal tragedy when a pet succumbs to illness or injury that could have been prevented. In this situation, ‘Bob’ likely would have drowned after becoming exhausted with no way to get out of the canal,” said CCFD spokesman Michael Heeder.
The Cape Coral Fire Department offers everyone with a pet some safety tips to keep their “furry friends happy and healthy:”
* Keep toxic solutions stored in a secure area where the container cannot be knocked over and spilled. Animals may drink and eat the substance and it only takes a small amount to poison a pet.
* Make sure you have a secured area for your pet. While cats tend to venture off, dogs tend to get into situations, especially around water that they may not be able to escape.
* Always make sure your pet has proper identification, whether a collar with ID tag or a microchip implanted. Make sure to include a telephone number so you can be contacted if your animal is found by authorities or taken to the animal shelter.