A heroic act by a St. Louis County animal control officer has captured the hearts of the community.

On July 21, 2024, while on routine patrol in the Kinloch area, Animal Control Officer (ACO) Bill Ellis heard the faint whimpering of an animal. Alarmed by the distressed cries, Ellis initiated a search and discovered a dog trapped in a sewer.

[Click here to watch the rescue on YouTube]

ACO Bailey Brooks, who was called for potential backup, recorded the rescue as ACO Ellis used a pole to safely remove the trapped dog from the sewer.

“What ACO Ellis did was really amazing,” said Dr. Kanika Cunningham, director of the Department of Public Health, in a press release. “The rescue doesn’t immediately appear complicated but using the pole in that manner without strangling the dog takes incredible skill.”

Animal Control employees have affectionately named the dog Oscar. He will be available for adoption through the Diamonds in the Ruff Rescue in St. Peters. “We are incredibly proud of ACO Ellis for his swift and courageous actions,” said County Executive Dr. Sam Page. “This rescue underscores the dedication and commitment of our officers to protecting the welfare of animals in our community.”