This browser does not support the Video element.
Florida firefighters rescue 'puppy' only to find it’s a fox
Firefighters in Flagler Beach got a surprise during what they thought was a routine rescue. The Flagler Beach Fire Department responded to a call about a "puppy" trapped about 30 feet down in a drain pipe. Using thermal imaging cameras, specialized confined-space equipment, and even pet oxygen masks, firefighters carefully extracted the animal.
FLAGLER BEACH, Fla. - Firefighters rescued a young coyote trapped inside a drain pipe in Flagler Beach on Monday evening.
What we know:
Emergency crews rescued a young coyote trapped approximately 30 feet inside a drain pipe along Lambert Avenue in Flagler Beach on Monday evening.
On the evening of August 18, 2025, emergency units from the Flagler Beach Fire Department and Flagler County Fire Rescue responded to a report of a dog trapped in a drain pipe along Lambert Avenue in Flagler Beach. [Credit: Flagler Beach Fire Departm …
Firefighters from the Flagler Beach Fire Department and Flagler County Fire Rescue responded after reports of a dog stuck in the pipe. Engine 11 crews confirmed the animal’s presence, and the Technical Rescue Team was called in to assist with the complex operation.
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX LOCAL APP
Initially believed to be a puppy, the animal was later identified as a juvenile coyote. Firefighters worked through the night to remove the animal safely, which was then transferred to Flagler County Animal Control for care and treatment.
On the evening of August 18, 2025, emergency units from the Flagler Beach Fire Department and Flagler County Fire Rescue responded to a report of a dog trapped in a drain pipe along Lambert Avenue in Flagler Beach. [Credit: Flagler Beach Fire Departm …
What we don't know:
Authorities have not detailed how the coyote became trapped in the drain pipe or how long it had been stuck before crews arrived.
What they're saying:
"The teamwork displayed during this incident reflects the strong cooperation between our agencies and our commitment to protecting both people and animals in our community," said Chief Cox of the Flagler Beach Fire Department.
On the evening of August 18, 2025, emergency units from the Flagler Beach Fire Department and Flagler County Fire Rescue responded to a report of a dog trapped in a drain pipe along Lambert Avenue in Flagler Beach. [Credit: Flagler Beach Fire Departm …
Social media users praised the rescue. Dawn M. Snyder Petrillo wrote, "Thank you for rescuing this little guy. Hope he gets rehabbed and returned back into the wild." Amber Jones added, "Not all heroes wear capes. Most heroes wear heavy protective gear and put their lives on the line for strangers. Thank you for protecting all!"
SIGN-UP FOR FOX 35'S BREAKING NEWS, DAILY NEWS NEWSLETTERS
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by Flagler Beach Fire Department.