Not all dogs are the same; some are super friendly, while others, like many stray dogs, can be pretty wary of people because they’ve had to fend for themselves.
This story unfolds in Sapphire Valley, North Carolina, where a local police officer faced quite a challenge with a stray dog. Despite his initial attempts, which were met with little success due to the dog’s fear and survival instincts, the officer realized he needed to think outside the box if he was going to help this dog before the winter chill set in.
What he did next was not only creative but also quite effective.
An Unusual Plan to Win Over a Wary Dog
The officer in question was Sean Holcom, who worked for the Blue Ridge Public Safety team. He and his colleague spent days trying to help a skittish stray dog that had been roaming the streets. As the cold front approached, Holcom knew they had to act fast to save the animal.
The team shared their mission on Facebook: “Our officers have been trying to catch this dog that has been wandering around Sapphire Valley for several days. We are hoping to get her out of the frigid cold as soon as possible.”
But the usual methods weren’t working. That’s when Holcom decided to try something he learned during his time in the U.S. Army, where he gained valuable experience working with canines.
Laying Down the Law…and Some Chicken
Instead of chasing after the frightened dog, Holcom took a more passive approach. He lay down on the ground, placing some chicken on his chest, and waited patiently for the dog to come to him. This approach relies on making the animal feel less threatened by sharing their level—literally lying down on the ground to seem less intimidating.
It didn’t take long for the dog to approach Holcom and claim her tasty reward. This method, as reported by the Miami Herald, is based on the principle that being at the same eye level as dogs can make them feel more at ease and less anxious.
Going Viral: A Heartwarming Rescue
This unique rescue quickly caught the attention of many and warmed the hearts of thousands across the nation. It was a perfect demonstration of Holcom’s love and understanding of dogs. The lucky pup, who soon would have a new name and home, was no longer just a stray thanks to his efforts.
“We are so lucky to have officers who love this community and are ready to serve everyone, including dogs,” the Blue Ridge Public Safety team shared on Facebook, highlighting the community spirit and Holcom’s dedication.
The Good News Keeps Coming
After the rescue, the dog was taken to a local humane society. It didn’t take long for her to find a new home. Holcom gave an update that would melt any animal lover’s heart. The dog, initially named Betty in honor of Betty White whose birthday it was, found a forever home and was renamed Sapphire.
“Betty is what I call her because it was Betty White’s birthday, was adopted by her FUR-ever local family. Her new name Sapphire,” Holcom wrote, sharing the good news on Facebook.
A Community Effort
Holcom emphasized that the successful rescue of Sapphire was a community effort. Residents of the area had been supportive throughout the search, providing food and treats to help comfort the nervous dog.
“While we tracked her we had so many residents stop and give us food and treats to help comfort her. This is why I’m so proud to be an officer with Blue Ridge Public Safety and serve and protect all of the community, including the fur babies,” he expressed on his Facebook page.
Thanks to the collective efforts of the community and the innovative thinking of Officer Holcom, Sapphire was given a chance to start a new life full of fun and love with a family that was eager to make every day memorable for her.
This story not only highlights the challenges stray animals face but also the compassion and creativity humans can employ to make a difference. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the good that can happen when people and communities come together to help those in need, even if they have four legs and a tail.
