On June 30, South Metro Fire Rescue crews responded to a call about a large dog trapped in a narrow trench near North Pinery Parkway and Highway 83. That dog was Carl—a gentle giant with serious medical needs who had been missing for over 40 hours after running off during fireworks. Carl was found stuck in a trench just 6–8 inches wide and nearly 8 feet deep. Working alongside a construction crew, SMFR firefighters safely excavated and rescued Carl, who was exhausted and in critical condition. Carl has since been reunited with his rescuers, walking, tail wagging, and reminding us all why we say: we don’t deserve dogs. Thanks to the compassion of his foster, the volunteers from Big Dogs Huge Paws Rescue, and the community who never stopped searching, Carl is healing and loved.