A dog named Dozer is getting a fresh start after being rescued from a quarry off Fifth Street Southwest, south of Golden Gate Boulevard.
Workers at the quarry fed the stray dog and kept an eye on him as he dodged dump trucks in the active work zone. Eventually, they reached out to Tom Kepp, president and founder of SNIP Collier , for help.
“He was just so sick and scared that he wouldn’t come to us,” Kepp said. “Finally, we were able to get a blanket over the top of him and catch him. Thanks to the employees, credit to them, for even calling us and taking care of him.”
Now safe at SNIP Collier, Dozer is receiving much-needed care. His matted fur, covered in burrs, was shaved off, and he has started treatment for heartworm.
“He’s matted, and he’s got heartworm — he’s heartworm positive,” Kepp said. “The name Dozer comes from, you know, the trucks in the quarry. How he didn’t get run over, I’ll never know. It’s a good story all the way around.”
Dozer is currently on a five-day hold to see if anyone claims him, but he isn’t microchipped.
“Well, he’s on the domestic animal service hold. We’re fostering him while he has a five-day hold,” Kepp said. “If someone claims him, he’s got heartworm, he’s matted and not in very good shape.”
Staff estimate Dozer is about 2 years old. While he remains scared, Kepp says most rescued animals eventually adjust with time and care.
“A little scared is an understatement,” Kepp said. “Most of the animals we find like that, after they’re healthy and get around people, they’re socialized 90% of the time. I think he’s going to be fine.”
From life in a quarry to receiving lifesaving care, Dozer is on the road to recovery. Soon, he may be ready for a loving home.