Not long ago, a frantic call came into City of San Antonio Animal Care Services (SAACS) about a terrifying sight: a dog trapped on active train tracks. The caller wasn’t sure if the pup had been intentionally tied down or if his leash had somehow gotten caught — but either way, it was clear he needed help fast.
Animal Care Officer Edwards responded immediately, racing to the scene. There, lying helplessly on the tracks, was a yellow Lab who would soon be named Lucky. As Officer Edwards approached, he realized the situation was even worse than it first appeared.
“Officer Edwards noticed the leash tied around Lucky’s neck was nailed to the tracks, tightening the more he struggled,” SAACS shared on Facebook. “Lucky was terrified and hesitant to trust anyone.”
Knowing every second counted, Officer Edwards carefully worked to gain Lucky’s trust. With patience and a gentle touch, he was able to secure the scared pup with a humane catch pole.
Just as he freed Lucky’s leash from the nail, Edwards heard the unmistakable rumble of an approaching train.
“Officer Edwards moved quickly and safely, pulling Lucky off the tracks,” SAACS wrote. “A train barreled through before they could even reach the animal transport vehicle.”
Thankfully, Lucky was safe — cradled in Officer Edwards’ arms as the train roared by.
Once back at SAACS, Lucky received a full medical evaluation and a cozy kennel to call his own. Slowly, with time and kindness, the once-terrified pup began to relax and trust the people around him.
“After settling in, Lucky has really opened up to people,” SAACS shared. “Now he just needs a forever family!”
It didn’t take long. After sharing Lucky’s story on Facebook, the shelter received an outpouring of interest. One man, Mr. C., knew the moment he saw Lucky that he was meant to be part of his family.
“As soon as I met him, I could tell he was exactly the kind of dog that would fit in with my family,” Mr. C. said. “He was so chill and unbothered.”
After spending some time getting to know each other at the shelter, Mr. C. made it official. A few days later, Lucky — now renamed Duke — went home for good.
Today, Duke is thriving with his new dad, finally living the safe, happy life he deserves.
SAACS never found out how Duke ended up on those train tracks, but they’re forever grateful to the Good Samaritan who called for help — and to Officer Edwards for stepping in just in time.
“We’re not sure if Lucky’s leash caught the nail as he walked past or if someone secured him,” SAACS said. “But we are beyond grateful to those who spoke up and helped save him.”
To support other animals like Duke, you can donate to City of San Antonio Animal Care Services here.
