It isn’t always about catching criminals or issuing citations; sometimes, being in the right place at the right time makes all the difference. This sentiment rings true in the story of two deputies from Fort Pierce, Florida, named James Gettings and Troy Glover. One day, Deputies Gettings and Glover were out on duty, serving civil paperwork at a home in Fort Pierce. Just as they were leaving, a faint whimper caught their attention, prompting them to pause.
Concerned about the source of the sound, they decided to investigate further. Following the noise, they found themselves at an empty lot next to the house. According to a post from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook, they discovered a heartbreaking sight: a tiny puppy, soaked and trapped neck-deep in a collapsing septic drain, with only his head visible above the muck.
Without wasting any time, the deputies sprang into action. Using a catch pole, they carefully maneuvered the frightened pup out of the hazardous situation. Once freed, the poor dog was covered in mud, shivering, and visibly distressed.
But the deputies didn’t stop there. They made sure to clean him up, giving him a much-needed bath to calm him and make him feel more comfortable.
Next, they tried to find the puppy’s owner, searching the area and hoping someone would come forward to claim him. But no one did. At that moment, Deputy Gettings felt an emotional tug. He knew he couldn’t bear the thought of sending the pup to a shelter.
In a spontaneous yet heartfelt decision, Gettings chose to bring the little dog home. It felt like fate had brought them together. After a period of recovery and rehabilitation—especially for his hind legs, which were non-functional when he was found—the puppy, now named Puddle, was ready to settle into his new life.
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He was welcomed by Deputy Gettings’ wife, Rachael, their daughter, Evelyn, and their Basset hound, Lacie. Puddle quickly became a cherished member of the family, fitting in as if he had always belonged.
Now, he has a loving home filled with warmth and care. Puddle’s story is a powerful reminder of how a single act of kindness can change a life forever.
Toledo, United States.
