DEEP officer rescues dog that escaped from cage and was struck by car

In a heartwarming turn of events, a Department of Energy and Environmental Protection officer in Canton, CT, recently saved a dog that had escaped its cage and was hit by a car. The 1-year-old terrier mix was discovered in the woods near the intersection of Route 44 and Sterling Drive, thanks to the efforts of Burlington & Canton Animal Control.

According to reports, the dog had been left in a crate with some food, but managed to escape and was unfortunately struck by a passing vehicle as it attempted to cross Route 44. The situation seemed dire, but thanks to the quick thinking and compassion of DEEP Officer Roland Salvatore, the dog was given a second chance at life.

Officer Salvatore recounted his experience, stating, “I started to make my way back to my truck when I noticed a crate that was tipped over and I saw a big bag of food, so my mind immediately went to someone had dumped a dog off.” Determined to help, he searched the wooded area and eventually heard a yelp nearby. Following the sound, he found the injured dog in a field, in need of immediate medical attention.

With no collar, tags, or microchip to identify the dog, Officer Salvatore acted swiftly, taking the pup to his vehicle and enlisting the help of Canton police to transport the dog to a vet in time. Despite the traumatic experience, a bond quickly formed between the officer and the dog, leading to the decision to pursue adoption.

Describing the dog as special and sweet, Officer Salvatore decided to name him Tony. When asked about the choice of name, he explained, “That was the first name that came into my mind when the Canton Police officer said you should name, what do you want to name him. Tony was the first name out of my mouth.”

Since the incident, Tony has been making great strides in his recovery and is described as a bundle of energy by Officer Salvatore. The pair has formed a strong bond, showcasing the power of compassion and kindness in the face of adversity.

In a world where animals are often mistreated and neglected, stories like this serve as a reminder of the importance of empathy and action. Thanks to the heroic efforts of Officer Salvatore and the support of the local community, Tony now has a chance at a happy and fulfilling life. This heartwarming tale is a testament to the impact that one person can have in making a difference in the life of a defenseless animal.