From the alert neighbor who made the first call to the first responders and the dedicated team at the Asheville Humane Society, this is a story of how many hands came together to save one very special and now he found his furever home:
Many Hands, One Life Changed Asheville Humane Society:
A call from a concerned neighbor set lifesaving rescue in motion for a large stray dog trapped in an abandoned swimming pool. No one knew how long he’d been there or how much longer he could stay afloat.
Fire officials were dispatched, and Officer Robert Crume with the APD joined the call, racing to the scene with his lights flashing.
They arrived at an abandoned house with a neglected above-ground pool tucked behind it.
Mosquitos swarmed over dark green water, brimming with algae and debris.
The dog's head was just visible above the edge of the pool, his paws clinging desperately to the side. Working together, Officer Crume and the firefighters were able to lift the 65-pound dog to safety.
“The dog looked like he had been in there for a while,” said Officer Crume. “He had some damage to his poor toenails and he was exhausted — completely exhausted.”
The dog, aptly named Tank for his size and determination to survive, came to Asheville Humane Society soon after. Thanks to quick action and expert care from our medical team, the only lingering effect was a mild respiratory infection that cleared up quickly.
When no one claimed Tank, a new mission began: help him heal, learn some canine manners, and find a forever home. Like many stray dogs, Tank had little socialization or training. His size, strength, and lack of impulse control made him a challenge.
That’s where teamwork changed everything. Rescue is an event, but recovery is a journey.
Our Behavior team and dedicated volunteers worked patiently with Tank—monitoring him in playgroups, taking him on socialization walks, and reinforcing positive behaviors. Slowly, they transformed Tank from chaos machine to a (still high-energy but manageable) lovebug.
Surprisingly, Tank decided he still loved water. During playgroup, he’d plop into the dog area’s kiddie pool without fear.
Before long, Tank found what every animal deserves: a loving home. Today, he’s thriving with his adopter, safe, cherished, and far removed from the danger of that abandoned pool.
The team who saved Tank had many faces. You can be the final, crucial member. Please give today and stand with us in teamwork, compassion, and hope.
WNCTimes
Image: Asheville Humane Society