A DJI drone played a key role in saving a small dog fighting for his life in a California canal, proving once again how aerial technology can make a real difference in emergencies.
As The Dodo told us, In August, a Good Samaritan walking near a canal in Redwood City spotted a small animal struggling in the water. They quickly called the Redwood City Fire Department, which sent a rescue team to the scene.
Fire Captain Chris Clow launched a DJI drone to scan the area from above. From the air, he located the frightened brown dog paddling desperately in the canal.
Clow guided ground and water crews toward the animal’s location, helping coordinate the rescue in real time.
A tense rescue from above
The dog, terrified and exhausted, kept swimming away whenever rescuers tried to approach. “He would begin to swim toward the shore, then swim away whenever someone got close to him,” Clow told The Dodo.
Clow kept the drone hovering close enough to gently steer the dog’s movements, preventing him from heading back toward the deeper water. As the boat and ground teams closed in, the drone provided constant visual support, helping rescuers track every move.
Finally, the dog was guided toward the shore, where firefighters managed to grab him safely by the scruff of his neck and lift him out of the water. San Mateo County Animal Control officers were waiting nearby to check his condition and take him to safety.
Back home and safe again
The dog was tired but uninjured. Later that day, animal control reunited him with his family, who were overjoyed to have him back home.
Captain Clow said the rescue was a perfect example of how technology and teamwork can save lives. “The coordination between the ground crews, the boat and the drone is something we train for,” he said. “We are thankful that we were able to put that training to use to save the dog’s life.”
He also reminded pet owners to keep gates locked, use leashes near water, and make sure pets are microchipped in case they ever get lost.
DroneXL’s Take
This rescue shows how drones are becoming vital tools for first responders.
A single aerial view can spot what rescuers on the ground can’t see and save precious time when lives are on the line. It’s a reminder that drones are more than just cameras in the sky—they’re helping humans save lives, one mission at a time.
Photo credit: Instagram @redwoodcityfire
