Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies and an animal services officer rescued two dogs trapped in the Friant Kern Canal on March 5 after they swam away from an attempted rescue.

A citizen called authorities to report the stranded dogs near McKinley and Viau avenues, according to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.

When the citizen attempted to help, the frightened dogs swam farther into the canal.

After nearly 45 minutes, the dogs found a small landing inside the canal but were unable to climb out.

Deputies with Search and Rescue experience coordinated the rescue effort.

A deputy entered the water, securing ropes provided by another officer and nearby citizens to the dogs, before bringing them safely to shore.

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