In a quirky but heartwarming moment in Dortmund, Germany, local firefighters found themselves performing an unusual rescue — pulling a feisty red squirrel stuck in a manhole cover — and the furry little guy wasn’t exactly grateful for the help.
Stubborn Squirrel Triggers an Emergency Response
Earlier this week, Germany’s Dortmund Fire Brigade received a call about an animal in distress. A concerned citizen had spotted a tiny red squirrel wedged tightly into the hole of a manhole cover in the middle of the street. His head was barely visible, and he appeared to be in serious trouble.
But this wasn’t going to be a simple rescue.
Not Your Typical Grateful Rescue Animal
While most animals in danger seem to instinctively understand when help arrives — remaining calm or even affectionate — this little squirrel had other ideas.
According to the Good Samaritan who first noticed him, the squirrel tried to bite her when she got close. Concerned for both the animal’s safety and her own, she called emergency services for backup.
Within minutes, five firefighters from the Dortmund Fire Brigade were on the scene, but even their presence didn’t do much to calm the tiny creature. The squirrel remained combative and difficult to handle.
A Delicate and Difficult Operation
“The firefighters lifted the manhole cover and carefully attempted to free the frightened animal from the hole,” the Dortmund Fire Brigade shared in a statement. “However, the operation turned out to be quite complicated, since the squirrel did not show himself to be cooperative.”
Despite its biting attempts and claw-filled protests, the team remained focused. Using slow, calculated movements and protective gear, the firefighters eventually managed to free the stubborn squirrel from his uncomfortable predicament.
A Happy Ending – Whether He Appreciated It or Not
Once released, the squirrel didn’t stick around to say thank you. Instead, he bolted straight into the nearest tree, leaving his rescuers behind in the dust — claws, teeth, and all.
“In the end, the firefighters successfully freed the animal,” the fire department reported. “He was unharmed and quickly disappeared into the trees.”
Fortunately, the firefighters took no offense to the squirrel’s lack of gratitude. After all, the goal was never a thank-you — just a safe and successful animal rescue.
Why This Story Matters
Though it may seem like a humorous encounter, the event serves as another reminder of the critical role first responders play, not only in saving human lives but in protecting wildlife in urban environments.
From house fires to high trees and now even manhole covers, fire departments around the world often go above and beyond to help the most vulnerable — even if they’re small, fluffy, and a little on the cranky side.
Related: Public Outrage After Peanut the Squirrel’s Death: Why Animal Lovers Are Demanding Justice
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