A small dog, now nicknamed the “little raging demon,” was rescued by authorities from the Arthur Kill River in New Jersey.
According to a Facebook post shared by the New Jersey State Police, officers Michael Buchell and Shane McClafferty were responding to a call about a distressed dog when they noticed unusual movement in the water.
That’s when they discovered a very cute (and very angry) puppy struggling against the current, floating on what appeared to be a discarded piece of furniture, as shown in footage from the officers’ body-worn camera.
When they tried to retrieve him, the puppy responded with growls and fierce barking. He then jumped off the furniture and briefly disappeared underwater before resurfacing beneath a pier.
Buchell eventually managed to approach the spot the dog was using as a shelter and tried to calm him: “It’s okay, it’s okay… I’m trying to help.”
After several attempts, he took off his reflective vest and tossed it over the puppy, wrapping him in the fabric. The dog struggled at first, but the vest helped protect the officer from bites.
Police said the grumpy little pup, whom they named Oscar in honour of the famously grouchy character from Sesame Street, is believed to be around one year old.
The officers used a rescue boat and an emergency blanket to safely bring Oscar aboard, police reported.
Oscar showed signs of fatigue and early-stage hypothermia, but after being warmed up and taken to the station, authorities confirmed he was in good condition.
Officer Buchell is currently taking care of Oscar until his owners are found – or until he’s adopted into a new home.
Photo and video: New Jersey State Police / Facebook
