Loyal dog alerts rescuers to friend trapped in cold, muddy well, CA officials say

When an Oakland security guard went to check on a dog hanging out beside a well, he found a surprise inside, California animal control officers reported.

A second dog was trapped in the cold, muddy water filling the well, Oakland Animal Services said in a Facebook post. Merida had been in the well for about six hours, her loyal friend Wellington waiting nearby.

The security guard notified animal services, and two officers rushed out to rescue Merida from the well, the agency said.

“Once she was out, they saw she was covered in cuts, from her attempts to get out on her own, and cold muddy water,” the post said. “She was so weak that she was unable to walk.”

Animal control officers warmed and stabilized Merida, officials said. Photos posted on Facebook show the two dogs reuniting at the shelter.

Wellington and Merida went to foster homes, and both have now been adopted, the agency said. The post did not say when the rescue took place.

“We are so grateful for the heroic team effort to save this lucky Merida!” the post read.

“I don’t know Wellingtons family, but I know Merida’s and I know she is in her absolute dream home now,” read a comment on the post.

This story was originally published April 16, 2024 at 1:35 PM with the headline "Loyal dog alerts rescuers to friend trapped in cold, muddy well, CA officials say."