“Miracles do happen.”
A compassionate bystander was walking near a canal in Arizona when she spotted a shopping cart floating in the swift current — and to her shock, she realized a small dog was clinging to it for dear life. A senior Chihuahua mix, later named Dorthea, had somehow ended up atop the cart in the middle of the canal, and her time was running out. Without hesitation, the Good Samaritan reached out to the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) for assistance. They quickly coordinated with the Phoenix Fire Department, and together the two teams mobilized to rescue her.
Using a ladder and various rescue tools, the teams worked diligently to reach the frightened Dorthea. They managed to pull the cart closer to the canal’s edge, carefully securing her and lifting her to safety. As soon as she realized she was out of danger, her tail began to wag uncontrollably.
“We are incredibly thankful for the swift actions of our amazing Field Team and the Phoenix Fire Department, who collaborated to give this sweet pup a second chance,” AHS shared on TikTok. Dorthea was swiftly placed in the AHS ambulance for a medical evaluation. She was dirty, hungry, dehydrated, and infested with ticks, but fortunately, she didn’t appear to have any severe injuries. She was rushed to AHS’ Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital for a comprehensive exam and the tender care she desperately needed.
Dorthea required some minor dental work, but aside from that, her health was surprisingly good considering her ordeal, and she was more than ready to receive love from her new caregivers. The circumstances that led Dorthea to the canal remain a mystery, but she was incredibly fortunate to be rescued just in time. After spending a month at AHS receiving plenty of cuddles and attention, she found her forever home with a family in Youngtown, Arizona. Now, Dorthea is enjoying the life she has always deserved, thanks to the Good Samaritan and the dedicated rescuers who brought her to safety.
“Miracles do happen,” AHS proclaimed.