Dogs vary greatly in their attitude towards humans, and stray dogs, in particular, can be challenging to engage with due to their instinctual wariness and survival instincts.
An officer from North Carolina learned this firsthand while attempting to rescue a stray dog in Sapphire Valley. After several tiring attempts to reach the frightened animal before the cold weather hit, he realized he needed to change his strategy.
What he did next took everyone, including the dog, by surprise!
A Creative Solution
Officer Sean Holcom from Blue Ridge Public Safety in Sapphire, North Carolina, demonstrated remarkable insight into dog behavior during a rescue mission.
Alongside his partner, he had been attempting to catch a nervous dog that had been seen wandering the nearby streets for days. With a cold front approaching, this compassionate officer made it his goal to assist the vulnerable animal.
“Our officers have been working hard to capture this dog that’s been roaming Sapphire Valley for several days. We’re eager to get her indoors and away from the harsh cold,” the BRPS team shared on Facebook.
Finally encountering the dog, Holcom decided to try a unique tactic. Instead of attempting to corner her, he lay down on the ground with chicken on his chest and patiently waited for the dog to approach.
It didn’t take long for the hungry dog to come over and grab her treat.
As reported by the Miami Herald, Holcom had learned this effective method while working with dogs during his service in the U.S. Army. It seems that getting on the dog’s level significantly calms their nerves, and this officer expertly used this technique!
This brave rescue quickly gained attention on social media, capturing the hearts of many across the nation. Holcom’s compassion for animals proved to be fruitful, and the sweet girl was ready to meet her forever family.
“We are thrilled to have officers who genuinely care about the community, going above and beyond to assist everyone, including our furry friends,” Blue Ridge Public Safety expressed in a Facebook post.
Happy Ending
Immediately after her rescue, the dog was taken to a local humane society. Just a few days later, Officer Holcom shared the wonderful news about… Betty!
Betty (now named Sapphire) found a loving forever home just days after her rescue. Since no one had claimed her at the shelter, a local family showed interest in her, and they are now set to create countless joyful memories together.
“I named her Betty to honor Betty White’s birthday, and she has been adopted by her forever family here. Her new name is Sapphire,” Officer Holcom announced on Facebook.
Holcom highlighted that the successful rescue of Sapphire was truly a collaborative effort, thanks to the support of kind-hearted local residents who provided comfort and treats throughout the mission.
“During our efforts to find her, we received generous support from many residents who stopped by to offer food and treats, helping to ease her anxiety. This is why I take immense pride in being an officer with Blue Ridge Public Safety, dedicated to serving and protecting all community members, including our furry friends,” Holcom shared on Facebook.
Thanks to her North Carolina community, Sapphire is now set to start a brand-new chapter in life with the family that will cherish her every day!
