A dog has been freed after a rubber bucket became stuck on its head in the US state of Alabama.
The animal had been seen wandering for several days in Winston County with the bucket lodged over its head, before local residents combined efforts to remove it.
The rescue effort was led by Eric Bowman, who organised a search after images of the distressed dog appeared on social media showing the bucket stuck firmly in place.
Animal catcher Kaleb Estill, who assisted in the operation, later stated on social media that the Labrador mix, nicknamed ‘Buck’ owing to the bucket on its head, had been safely captured. A Belgian Malinois accompanying the dog was also rescued and named ‘Melo’ by the team.
Bowman told local media he approached the dog from behind and began cutting the rubber bucket with scissors. “We slowly removed the bucket from its head, and it seemed as though its whole demeanour changed,” he said. “As soon as it came off, there was a sense of relief on its face and it almost went limp.”
Both dogs were examined by veterinary doctors and are expected to be offered for adoption in due course.
Estill expressed hope that a suitable owner would take in both animals together, noting that Melo remained by the black dog’s side throughout the ordeal.
