During a quiet walk near a canal in Price, Utah, a couple was startled by strange noises coming from the water.
They moved closer to see what it was and noticed a patch of fur moving along the edge of the canal.
It didn’t take long for them to realize the truth, and what they saw left them stunned.
A Struggling Dog
In the cold water was a small dog, paddling desperately and trying to find a way out.
The couple quickly saw that the canal was fenced off with barbed wire, making it impossible to reach the animal safely. Determined to get help, they called the local police department.
Captain Brandon Ratcliffe answered the call and responded immediately.
When he arrived, the exhausted dog, later identified as Chica, was still fighting to stay above the surface.
“The sounds she was making [were] like she was having trouble breathing or had water in her lungs. Nonetheless, I climbed the fence and jumped over the barbed wire while Officer Tapia was able to unlock the gate further down the canal on the other side. Just in case she slipped away, Officer Tapia would have been in position to grab her.” said Captain Brandon.
Within moments, Brandon had reached Chica and pulled her out of the water. She was terrified but safe.
Once on dry ground, the little dog pressed herself against him, refusing to let go.
A Safe Haven
Captain Brandon had planned to take Chica directly to an animal shelter, but after seeing how shaken she was, he chose to care for her himself first. He brought her home, dried her off, and gave her a comfortable place to rest.
Later that day, he introduced Chica to his colleagues at the Price City Police Department. The friendly pup quickly won over everyone she met, happily wagging her tail as if she knew she was finally safe.
When officers took her to the vet, a microchip scan revealed she had an owner who had been searching for her all morning. The reunion was emotional. Chica’s owner was overjoyed to have her back and couldn’t thank Captain Brandon enough for his quick action.
“The owner offered to pay the individuals who spotted Chica, but I told her all everyone wanted was to make sure Chica was OK.” Brandon explained.
A Kindness Remembered
Stories like this remind us how compassion and quick thinking can change everything.
Thanks to the couple who called for help and the officer who acted without hesitation, Chica made it home safely.
Good girl, Chica, and a heartfelt thank-you to those who helped her through.
