Firefighters Rescue 8 ‘Puppies’ from Drain—Then Realize They’re Not Dogs at All

It began with a frantic phone call—eight minuscule beings, shivering and isolated, were trapped within the depths of a pitch-black drainpipe.

From afar, they appeared as lost and vulnerable puppies, crying out for help and salvation. However, as the firefighters hurried to the scene, there was an unsettling feeling in the air. Why would a mother dog abandon all her puppies in a concealed, perilous location?

And why was the drain so silent, save for the occasional rustle? As the rescue unfolded, it became evident—this wasn’t going to be your typical puppy rescue. What they extracted from the pipe would leave everyone in awe. 

Animal rescues can be incredibly taxing and emotionally charged. From kittens stuck in trees to animals entangled in brambles, the obstacles are seemingly endless. Occasionally, baby animals are separated from their mothers and find themselves in perilous, inaccessible locations. In these moments, calm and focused professionals are required—and firefighters are often the ideal heroes for the job. 

In 2018, fire captain brian vaughan received a distressing call: eight small black puppies had been found abandoned in a drainpipe and required immediate assistance. 

Within just 20 minutes of arriving at the scene, firefighters managed to rescue all eight animals. They seemed to be in good health and were promptly transported to the animal rescue organization based in Colorado’s Pike’s Peak region. 

But what occurred next astonished everyone.

Upon a more thorough inspection at the shelter, the staff realized that these were not labrador puppies, but rather a different breed. As one veterinarian put it, ‘these aren’t labradors—they’re foxes.’. 

Foxes are indigenous to the mountainous terrain where the animals were discovered. According to Travis Sauer, the district manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, many individuals frequently confuse wild animal offspring with those raised by humans. 

‘this time of year, many animals are giving birth,’ sauder explained in an interview with cbs4 

The plan was to return the fox cubs to the exact location where they were found, in hopes their mother would return and resume care. 

‘we’re putting them back where they were discovered, hoping the mother is still nearby and will continue caring for them,’ sauder said

This situation emphasizes how frequently individuals with good intentions mistakenly identify wild animals, particularly infants. That’s why experts advise the public to seek professional help before intervening—because even with the best intentions, human involvement can sometimes upset the natural balance. 

With a stroke of luck, these little foxes will soon be reunited with their mother, returning to their rightful place in her care. 

Result: 

This touching yet unexpected rescue serves as a powerful reminder of how easily wild animals can be mistaken for domestic ones, particularly when they are young and vulnerable. Thanks to the prompt action and empathy of the firefighters, and the knowledge of wildlife experts, these fox cubs now have an opportunity to be reunited with their mother and return to their natural environment.

It’s a testament to the significance of seeking professional assistance in animal rescue scenarios—because sometimes, what appears to be a puppy in distress might actually be a wild animal longing to return to its natural habitat.