Calgary Transit operator credited with rescuing special family dog

A rescue dog was reunited with his family after a transit operator’s quick thinking saved the furry friend’s life a couple of weeks ago.

Leslie Sammel said she was walking her daughter’s dog Charlie, a miniature schnauzer, when it managed to escape from its collar and ran off.

Just two months before the ordeal, the family had adopted Charlie.

David Bolander, a Calgary Transit bus operator, was driving along his regular route and saw Sammel in distress, chasing after the little dog.

Right away, Bolander said he knew he had to jump in and help before anything bad happened.

Bolander parked his bus to cut the dog off as it continued to run down Promenade Way S.E. towards 52 Street.

“I didn’t like the dog’s chances if it made it to 52 Street,” Bolander said on Thursday.

As the dog dodged around the bus, Bolander said he noticed two teenagers and called for their help.

Luckily, they were able to catch Charlie, who Bolander has nicknamed “the little fugitive.”

Sammel — who met up with Bolander on Thursday and had the opportunity to formally thank him — said she was very grateful for the driver’s help. Charlie is not only a very important member of the Sammel family but also serves as a support animal for her daughter, Shannon, who suffers from an autoimmune disease.

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“It was really tough,” Sammel said. “Luckily we had a happy ending and we’re very grateful for everyone that saved Charlie.”

Bolander said the whole experience made his day.

Watch (Jan. 4): It was a celebration on wheels on a Calgary Transit bus Friday. Passengers were surprised as family and friends joined a veteran driver marking a major milestone. Gil Tucker went along for the ride.

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