The team at City of San Antonio Animal Care Services (SAACS) received an urgent call about a dog stranded on a live train track. The caller wasn’t sure if the dog’s predicament was accidental or intentional, but it was clear that the pup was in immediate danger. With the possibility of a train coming at any moment, time was of the essence. Animal Care Officer Edwards quickly arrived at the scene and found a yellow Labrador Retriever, later named Lucky, lying helplessly on the tracks. As Edwards moved closer, he noticed the gravity of the situation.
“Officer Edwards noticed the leash tied to Lucky’s neck was secured to the tracks with a nail, tightening more and more as he pulled away,” SAACS shared on Facebook. Lucky was understandably frightened and hesitant to trust the stranger approaching him.
Determined to save him, Edwards worked carefully to earn Lucky’s trust. With patience and skill, he managed to secure the dog using a humane catch pole, cautiously freeing him from the deadly trap. Just as Edwards began to untangle the leash from Lucky’s neck, the sound of an oncoming train shattered the tense silence.
“Officer Edwards moved quickly and safely, helping Lucky off the tracks,” SAACS wrote. “Before they could make it back to the animal transport vehicle, a train zoomed past!” Thankfully, Lucky was safely cradled in Edwards’ arms as they watched the train speed by. Once the immediate danger was over, the pair headed back to begin Lucky’s fresh start.
Back at the SAACS shelter, Lucky received a full checkup and was given a warm, secure place to rest. Though initially wary, the once-nervous dog gradually started warming up to his rescuers. “After some time to settle down, Lucky seems to feel much more open to befriending people,” SAACS wrote. “[He] needs a [forever] family!”
The team shared Lucky’s incredible rescue on Facebook, and the post quickly gained attention. Within a week, numerous people reached out about adopting him. Among them was Mr. C., who instantly felt a connection with the sweet pup.
“As soon as I met him, I could tell he was exactly the kind of dog that would fit in with my family. He was so chill and unbothered,” Mr. C. shared with SAACS in an update on Facebook. After spending just 30 minutes getting to know Lucky, Mr. C. was certain this was the dog for him.
Lucky’s adoption was finalized a few days later, and he began his new life with his loving family. Renamed Duke, he has settled beautifully into his new home, where he’s thriving and happier than ever.
Although the exact circumstances of how Duke ended up on the train tracks remain a mystery, his rescuers are overjoyed they were able to save him in time.
Shockingly, this is not the first time she has faced animal cruelty charges; she has a past conviction for similar crimes. We must ensure that no more animals suffer or die in her care!
“We’re not sure if Lucky’s leash caught the nail as he walked past or if someone secured him,” SAACS wrote. “But we are beyond grateful to those who reported this situation to 3-1-1, and Animal Care Officer Edwards for getting him to safety!” Thanks to the quick actions of his rescuers and the love of his new dad, Duke’s future is brighter than ever.
Toledo, United States.
