04 February 2024 , 09:53
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US Coast Guard (USCG) officers were tasked with an unexpected rescue when they discovered a dog trapped inside a shipping container.
USCG officer Ryan McMahon and his team were going about their routine inspection of shipping containers at the Port of Houston, Texas, on Wednesday morning when they heard barking and scratching noises emanating from one of the containers stacked about 25 feet high.
As suspicion grew, they used a crane to bring the container down to the ground, and, to their surprise, a sweet and friendly dog emerged, now affectionately named Connie the container dog.
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The canine, named Connie, had endured eight days without food or water (U.S. Coast Guard Heartland/Facebook)Petty Officer 2nd Class McMahon recounted the touching experience. He said: "As soon as we opened it, we could see the little dog’s face poking out. She just seemed happy more than anything, to be out of that dark space and in the arms of people that were going to take care of her."
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Further investigations by Coast Guard officials revealed that Connie had been trapped inside the container for at least eight days without food or water. She appeared dirty and notably underweight, indicating a challenging ordeal. The canine was promptly transported to an animal shelter in Pasadena, where she underwent a thorough examination.
Forever Changed Animal Rescue, a dedicated rescue group, has taken Connie under their care and is diligently working to nurse her back to health in preparation for adoption. Chief Petty Officer Corinne Zilnicki, a Coast Guard spokeswoman, explained that the container held junked vehicles destined for overseas markets. It is presumed that Connie accidentally found herself in the container while exploring a junkyard.
Rescued from a container, she appeared dirty and underweight, but remarkably sweet (U.S. Coast Guard Heartland/Facebook)
Forever Changed Animal Rescue is now working to rehabilitate and find her a home (U.S. Coast Guard Heartland/Facebook)For all the latest news, politics, sports, and showbiz from the USA, go to The Mirror US
Expressing gratitude for being in the right place at the right time, McMahon acknowledged the critical role their timely intervention played in saving Connie's life. The Coast Guard team conducts weekly inspections throughout the vast Port of Houston, encompassing thousands of containers.
Forever Changed Animal Rescue took to Facebook to thank everyone involved in the rescue mission, providing updates on Connie's condition. The post mentioned that Connie, though a bit underweight, tested positive for heartworm and would be receiving treatment.
While the inspectors briefly considered adopting Connie, they decided against it, confident that she will find a loving and caring home through the rescue group. McMahon said: "We know with all this, she’s going to go to a good home where they love her and take care of her."