A 10-year-old Chihuahua mix ended up in an unimaginable situation, stranded on top of a shopping cart in the middle of an Arizona canal. She was drenched, worn out, and clinging to the only thing keeping her above the water.
With no way to climb out, the small dog stayed frozen in place, hoping someone would notice her before it was too late. Fortunately, that is exactly what happened.
After an emergency call came in, the Phoenix Fire Department and the Arizona Humane Society’s Field Team responded immediately, knowing every minute mattered.
A Startling Discovery By The Water
Someone walking along the canal first saw what looked like debris floating near the surface. But as they stared a moment longer, they realized the object was moving.
To their shock, it was a dog, perched on a soaked shopping cart with the water all around her and no owner in sight.
The scene was so unusual that the bystander could hardly believe it.
The dog, later identified as Dorothea, looked terrified and completely stuck.
The passerby called for help right away, and responders soon arrived at the canal.
Arizona Humane Society medical technician Hunter Stribling worked alongside Phoenix firefighters to reach Dorothea safely.
No one could say how long she had been trapped out there, but it was clear she needed help fast.
After a careful rescue effort, the team lifted Dorothea out of the canal and onto solid ground. The relief was immediate, both for Dorothea and everyone watching.
“Miracles do happen! We are beyond grateful for the quick actions of our incredible Field Team and the Phoenix Fire Department who worked together to give this sweet pup a second chance at life,” the Arizona Humane Society shared in an Instagram post.
News of the rescue spread quickly, with many people praising the teamwork that saved her life.
Healing, Comfort, And A Real Home
Dorothea was taken straight to the Arizona Humane Society trauma hospital for a full medical check.
She was dehydrated, covered in ticks, and smelled strongly of canal water, but she was stable. Veterinarians also found that she had a few fractured teeth.
As she recovered, Dorothea’s personality began to show. Staff members saw a gentle senior dog who still wanted affection, even after everything she had been through.
“Throughout her month of treatment at the shelter (including a spa day with AHS’ groomer) Dorothea was found to be a sweet, loving girl who enjoyed cuddles and attention from humans,” the AHS team wrote on their website.
Before long, Dorothea received the biggest gift of all when an adopter stepped forward and welcomed her home.
Today, she spends her days in comfort, enjoying calm walks, soft places to rest, and the steady love of her new family. After surviving such a frightening ordeal, Dorothea can finally settle into the safe, peaceful life she deserved all along.
