A stranded dog trapped in a dense patch of cacti got a second chance thanks to a rescue by San Diego County Animal Control officers.
Video released by the county on Sept. 17 shows an officer leading the exhausted dog out of the cactus patch, where he was found covered in painful spines.
Rescuers transported the dog to the Bonita Shelter, where veterinary staff removed the cactus needles and began treatment immediately.
The county said the dog had likely gone several days without food, making the rescue even more urgent.
"He likely hadn't eaten in several days, but he never stopped being a good boy," the county wrote in a social media post.
As of Sept. 18, local reports said the dog was resting comfortably at the shelter and continuing to recover
under the care of staff who hope his ordeal is now behind him.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Shelter cares for dog rescued from cactus patch
