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Police save dog stranded in Gaston County river

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement specialists used a canoe to rescue a dog stranded in the middle of the South Fork of the Catawba River Friday.

Specialists Steven Rector and Joseph Toney went to the area of 119 Willow Drive in Lowell, North Carolina, after a report was received about a stranded dog.

Upon arrival, the specialists observed the dog stranded on debris that had formed in the middle of the river up against the bridge support for Interstate 85.

The area was only accessible by boat, officials said.

Despite the steady rain and poor weather conditions, the specialists initiated a rescue of the dog.

Rector retrieved his personal canoe from his home and returned to the riverbank.

He and Toney then used the canoe to rescue the dog.

The dog was in fear and aggressive with the specialists during their initial contact.

Rector was able to secure the dog, while Toney maintained balance of the canoe, and eventually assisted the dog into the canoe.

Both the officers and the dog returned safely to shore.

The dog was uninjured and has been placed into the Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement Shelter as the owner is currently unknown.

Anyone knowing the owner of the dog is encouraged to call Gaston County Police Animal Care and Enforcement at 704-866-3320.

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