Typically, when one thinks of a police officer they think of a tough person in uniform. Usually, we see them as stoic and all business. However, Officer Travis Ruggles of San Rafael Police Department in California, reminds us that police officers really do have big hearts and want to help save lives.
Deadly Heat
Picture yourself on a boat, enjoying a beautiful summer afternoon. Suddenly, the boat is engulfed in flames. You frantically look for your loved ones, but they are nowhere around. Firefighters arrive quickly and are doing all they can to save you, but nothing is working.
There is no way to really imagine how trapped and scared someone would feel in that moment. For an animal, who cannot process things like humans can, this is even more frightening. This exact scenario was reality for Tiger, a brindle pit bull mix.
Stranded and Alone
When Officer Ruggles arrived on the scene, he was told that all the people made it off the boat. His moment of relief was brief; the crowd of onlookers informed him there was still a dog aboard.
According to The Dodo, Ruggles said:
“When we got there the boat was pretty much engulfed, and there were people standing on the dock yelling that there was a dog on board. At first, I couldn’t see it, but then I caught a glimpse of this dog kind of hunkered in the corner up on the deck … basically trying to get away from the flames that were coming up on him.”
Ruggles, the owner of two dogs and two cats, has a soft spot for animals. In his down time, he trains horses. Little did he know this experience would save Tiger’s life.
Rescue Mission
Officers contemplated on how they could save the dog. They knew saving him by docking the boat was not an option; this would just put more lives at risk. The only other choice was going towards the fire.
Ruggles boarded a row boat that had been tied to the dock they were standing on. He then paddled toward the danger, not willing to see the dog die.
When he was close enough to the burning boat, he knew the dog was scared and probably wouldn’t trust him right away. Sure enough, the fearful animal growled and barked at the officer. Ruggles began talking to him in a soothing voice as he reached out to the frightened animal.
As the dog started to get comfortable, the animal lover pulled him into the boat where he was finally safe.
“I could just see the eyes start to droop down, and the ears start to fall, so I took that opportunity to pull him into the boat.” Says Ruggles.
Still feeling uneasy of his surroundings, the dog trembled but took comfort in Ruggles’ presence. The crowd cheered as the pair made their way back toward land.
As they exited their row boat, they looked back to see the section of the boat Tiger was on had succumbed to the flames. Ruggles thanked his lucky stars he didn’t hesitate any longer.
Tiger was reunited with his grateful owners. As for Officer Travis Ruggles, he is a true hero.
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Source: The Dodo
