Escaped Wallaby Rescued from Backyard Pool in South Carolina Neighborhood
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — A curious wallaby that sparked surprise and concern as it hopped through a South Carolina neighborhood was safely rescued from a backyard swimming pool after a brief pursuit by local authorities. The Summerville Police Department responded Wednesday to reports of the escaped marsupial wandering through a resident’s yard, ultimately retrieving the animal with help from Dorchester County Animal Control.
According to the police department’s social media post, officers spotted the wallaby and followed it as it bounded through the neighborhood. The chase ended when the animal jumped into a backyard pool, where officers and animal control personnel were able to safely remove it. The department described the incident as a “brief pursuit” that concluded without harm to the animal or residents.
Further investigation revealed the wallaby belongs to a nearby property that also houses another wallaby and a kangaroo. The exotic animals are cared for by a local veterinarian and enjoy a spacious enclosure, reportedly larger than the kangaroo habitat at the Columbia Zoo. This information helped reassure the community that the animals were well looked after and that the escape was likely accidental.
Wallabies, native to Australia, are not common pets in the United States, and their presence in residential areas can cause both fascination and concern. The collaboration between the Summerville Police Department and Dorchester County Animal Control reflects the growing need for local authorities to manage unusual animal incidents safely and humanely. The swift response ensured the wallaby’s safe return without injury or disruption.
Such incidents highlight the importance of animal control agencies in handling non-native species that occasionally escape captivity. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service oversees regulations related to exotic animals, emphasizing responsible ownership and containment.
Summerville Police Department’s handling of the wallaby rescue was praised on social media for its professionalism and care. The department’s Instagram post, which included photos of the animal’s poolside rescue, quickly garnered attention and offered a lighthearted moment amid routine law enforcement duties.
Residents in the area expressed relief that the situation was resolved peacefully and appreciated the officers’ efforts to protect both the animal and the community. The incident also prompted discussions about exotic pet ownership and the measures needed to prevent escapes.
For more information on safe animal handling and exotic pet regulations, the Humane Society of the United States provides resources for pet owners and animal control professionals. Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers guidance on the legal considerations for owning non-native species.
As the wallaby was returned to its home, officials reminded the public to report any unusual animal sightings to local authorities to ensure prompt and safe resolutions. This unusual episode in Summerville serves as a reminder of the diverse challenges faced by animal control and law enforcement agencies in communities across the country.
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