Good Samaritan rescues six puppies left in bucket near highway

The puppies were abandoned on the side of a busy road in San Diego County

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A Good Samaritan in San Diego County helped save six puppies who were abandoned in a bucket on the side of the road near Old Highway 395 and State Route 76. The rescuer stayed with the animals until deputies arrived, and the puppies are now in the care of animal services.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of community members being alert and willing to help animals in distress. The puppies could have been in serious danger if the Good Samaritan had not intervened, and their rescue underscores the need for responsible pet ownership and the proper care of animals.

The details

According to the San Diego Sheriff's Department, the puppies were left in a bucket last week near the intersection of Old Highway 395 and State Route 76. An alert resident called authorities to report the abandoned puppies, and the concerned citizen stayed with the animals until deputies arrived on the scene. The puppies were then transported to animal services for care.

  • Last week, the puppies were abandoned on the side of the road near Old Highway 395 and State Route 76.

The players

San Diego County Sheriff's Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the report of the abandoned puppies and transported them to animal services.

Good Samaritan

An unnamed individual who discovered the puppies abandoned in a bucket and stayed with them until authorities arrived to ensure their safety.

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What they’re saying

“The situation could have turned dangerous and we're thanking the concerned citizen for stepping in to help save the puppies.”

— San Diego Sheriff's Department (Twitter)

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community members being vigilant and willing to help animals in distress. The puppies' rescue highlights the need for responsible pet ownership and the proper care of animals to prevent such abandonment situations from occurring.