A young Labrador mix is recovering in a foster home after being rescued from a canal on McKinley and Cedar avenues by the Fresno Fire Department early last month.

The dog, now called Sam (Sam A016441), was pulled from the water on March 2 after emergency crews responded to a call about a distressed animal.

Following the rescue, Sam was taken to the Fresno Animal Center, where she was evaluated. Staff found no microchip, and her owners have not been located, the Fresno Animal Center said in a social media post.

Shelter officials sought a foster home quickly, as Sam appeared terrified in the kennel. Jesse Buglione and his wife stepped in to help.

“When we brought her home, she was very timid around us and our other pets,” Buglione said. “Within a day or two, she really started opening up to us, and now she won’t leave our side when we’re at home.”

Sam Needs More Than a Stuffed Gingerbread Man to Keep Her Whole

Sam, estimated to be between 2 and 3 years old, has settled in well. She carries around her favorite toy — a stuffed gingerbread man reluctantly donated by the family’s other dog — and has bonded with their two cats.

“She treats them with the mix of fear and respect that they deserve,” Buglione said.

Described as sweet and highly adaptable, Sam has quickly learned to walk on a leash, enjoys car rides, and responds more to attention than treats. She is housebroken and rarely barks, only doing so when startled.

“She is honestly as good of a dog as I could hope for, considering everything she went through and how afraid of people she was when we met her,” Buglione said.

Sam remains in foster care as she continues to adjust to her new surroundings. Those interested in adopting her can contact the Fresno Animal Center.

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