French Bulldog Rescued from Florida Island by Fishermen and Sheriff’s Deputies

25 December 2025 Bizarre

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Christmas Eve, a soaked and shivering French bulldog was rescued from a small island in the Ribault River near Grand Street, thanks to the quick action of local fishermen and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Officers responded to a call about a dog in distress and discovered the stranded canine isolated on the island, unable to reach safety on its own.

According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, deputies immediately sought assistance from two nearby fishermen. Without hesitation, the fishermen navigated their boat to the island and safely brought the French bulldog back to shore. The dog, affectionately named Porky by rescuers, was then transported to Animal Care & Protective Services for evaluation.

Animal Care & Protective Services found that Porky did not have a microchip, making it difficult to immediately identify its owner. However, the shelter reported that Porky is now “living his best life” and has already attracted a loving family eager to provide a permanent home. The successful rescue highlights the importance of community cooperation and swift response by law enforcement and animal welfare agencies.

This heartwarming story of a holiday rescue echoes the broader efforts by agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local animal control units to protect vulnerable animals in distress. The Ribault River area, a waterway known for its scenic views and wildlife, can pose unexpected dangers for pets and wildlife alike.

Incidents involving stranded animals often require collaboration between multiple parties. In this case, the fishermen’s willingness to assist deputies exemplifies the community spirit that can make all the difference in emergency situations. The local government resources encourage residents to report animals in distress promptly to ensure timely intervention.

As Porky settles into his new home, this rescue serves as a reminder of the critical role played by agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in overseeing animal welfare standards and supporting local shelters. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office continues to urge pet owners to microchip their animals to facilitate reunifications and prevent prolonged separations.

The rescue of Porky on Christmas Eve brought joy to many and underscores the impact of compassionate action during the holiday season. It also highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and community involvement in safeguarding animals across Florida and beyond.

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Written By
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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