Firefighters Rescue Puppy Trapped in Tire Rim in Fresno County

20 February 2026 Bizarre

FRESNO, Calif. — Firefighters in Fresno County responded to an unusual animal rescue call on Wednesday when a curious puppy found itself stuck with its head through the center of a tire rim. The crew from Cal Fire’s Engine 39 arrived promptly and worked with patience and care to free the distressed animal.

According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), the rescue required delicate handling to ensure the puppy was unharmed during the extraction. Officials shared the incident on social media, noting the firefighters’ persistence and gentle approach in carefully freeing the puppy. “Firefighters on Engine 89 carefully freed this puppy and made sure this puppy walked away unharmed (and a little embarrassed),” the post read.

The incident highlights the diverse roles that fire departments often play beyond fighting fires, including animal rescues that require quick thinking and compassion. Fresno County’s firefighters have a history of responding to similar calls, demonstrating their commitment to public safety and animal welfare. The Fresno County Fire Protection District frequently shares updates on their rescues, emphasizing community engagement and education.

Animal rescue operations such as this one often involve coordination with local animal control and veterinary services to ensure the well-being of rescued animals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) provides guidelines and support for animal welfare during emergency responses.

Similar rescues have been documented across the country, underscoring the unpredictable nature of animal emergencies. For instance, firefighters in Ohio recently rescued a horse stranded in a backyard pool, while in New Jersey, multiple departments collaborated to save a deer trapped on melting ice.

As for the Fresno puppy, the incident ended on a positive note with the animal unharmed and safely returned to its owner. The rescue serves as a reminder of the everyday heroes in fire departments who go beyond their traditional duties to protect and serve all members of the community, including its four-legged residents.

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Maya Chen reports on international politics, conflict and diplomacy. She specializes in explaining how global events shape U.S. security, trade and migration, and how decisions made abroad ripple into life at home.
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