‘Desperate cries for help’ coming from Texas drainpipe lead rescuers to trapped dog

A dog who now goes by Picolo was stuck in a Texas storm drainpipe when his “squawking barks” alerted a passer-by.

Animal rescuers were called, and when they arrived, the “timid but gentle little buddy” had been stuck for more than five hours, according to a Feb. 22 Facebook post from City of San Antonio Animal Care Services.

An animal care officer bent down toward the drain to get a look and heard the dog’s “desperate cries for help,” city animal officials say.

As she tried prying open the maintenance hole, another animal care officer showed up with a tire iron and the San Antonio Fire Department arrived with more tools to help lift the drain cover.

“It was a small tight opening as a Firefighter squeezed through towards Picolo,” Animal Care Services said. “He nervously corned himself, not understanding what was going on. Once Picolo emerged from the drain, (an officer) securely wrapped him in a towel to dry off some of the mud on him with the Firefighter’s assistance.”

Picolo received care from the service’s veterinary staff and is in need of a home to recover from his injuries. Staff say he has an injured leg, but it is not known if his leg was hurt from the fall.

“What we do know, with some extra care and attention, Picolo will be ready to warm your heart,” officials said. “So, he might not be ready for early spring walks, but he will get some pep in his step with a little more time!”

Anyone interested in adopting Picolo should visit City of San Antonio Animal Care Services.

This story was originally published February 22, 2022 at 3:14 PM with the headline "‘Desperate cries for help’ coming from Texas drainpipe lead rescuers to trapped dog."