Stray dogs are a common sight around Istanbul, Turkey. It's estimated that around 200,000 dogs roam the city. So, nobody (sadly) pays them too much attention.
What's down that drain?
But one stray German Shepherd kept catching people's eye. In fact, it was impossible not to notice him. The patient pooch spent his days sitting by the same storm drain and peering down into it.
Eventually, a local woman named Annie decided to investigate. But there was a slight problem: the dog wouldn't let her near the drain.
He growled at Annie whenever she approached. But don't blame the poor guy. It's hard to trust humans when all they've ever done is ignore you. But Annie wouldn't give up. And she knew there is always one way into any dog's heart: food. Annie spent a few days feeding the dog with treats from a local bakery on her way to work.
The dog realised that Annie was nice, so he let her take a peek down the drain. Annie was shocked at what she saw.
Thanks for rescuing my friends!
Sitting at the bottom of the storm drain was a litter of tiny kittens. The dog was trying to save them. He just wasn't going to let anyone near them until he found someone he (and the kittens) could trust. Annie called the local fire brigade, who arrived a few minutes later. They removed the storm drain and lifted the litter of kittens to safety.
Annie held onto the dog while firefighters carried out the rescue. He wanted to help, but this was a job for humans. When the job was done, Annie let him say hello to the kittens and meet the firefighters who saved them.
Annie said the dog's tail wouldn't stop wagging as he gave the kitties a good sniff. He also let out a few friendly barks to the firefighters. Annie is convinced he was saying thank you.
