When it comes to animal rescue, persistence can mean the difference between life and death. True rescuers never give up, no matter how unusual or difficult the situation may be.
That determination was exactly what guided an Illinois rescue team when they received word about a dog in desperate need of help. But this was no ordinary rescue — this time, they were trying to save a frightened pup wandering the streets with a purple cheeseball bucket stuck on his head.
Trapped And Terrified
Alisha Vianello, director of Gateway Pet Guardians in East St. Louis, Illinois, began getting multiple reports about a stray dog roaming the area with a plastic bucket wedged tightly over his head.
Alarmed, she and her team immediately went into rescue mode. But tracking him down was anything but easy.
“It took a few days to find him, and then once he was found, he kept running away and escaping capture,” Vianello stated on her Facebook.
The team tried every possible method to catch him. They called softly, offering food, and setting humane traps, but the terrified dog refused to let anyone close.
As the days went on, rescuers became increasingly worried. The bucket had been stuck on his head for at least three days, meaning he couldn’t eat, drink, or breathe properly. His condition could quickly become life-threatening.
Realizing time was running out, one of the volunteers, Dr. Kelsey, decided to use a tranquilizer dart with a mild sedative to safely slow him down just enough for capture.
Moments later, the plan worked. The dog was finally secured, and the purple bucket was carefully removed.
Safe At Last
Relief washed over the team. The pup, though shaken, was finally safe. He was taken to the shelter, where veterinarians examined him, gave him food and water, and made sure he was in stable condition.
Thankfully, aside from a few scrapes and dehydration, he was healthy and full of potential.
The team then gave him a name that perfectly suited his story: Buckethead.
“Of course we had to name him Buckethead and he’s safe and recovering in our shelter,” Vianello concluded.
Once he realized he was out of danger, Buckethead’s personality began to shine. His fear gave way to joy, and he started wagging his tail nonstop.
Within days, the once-panicked stray became one of the most affectionate dogs in the shelter.
A Star In The Making
Not long after his rescue, the team shared an update showing Buckethead’s adorable face without the bucket. The photos melted hearts everywhere.
He wasn’t just safe. He was downright charming. With his big, soulful eyes and goofy smile, it was hard to believe this was the same dog who had once run terrified through the streets.
Even though no one knew where he came from or if he had ever belonged to anyone, one thing was clear: Buckethead was made for love.
“Bucket Head’s true colors have shone through since we rescued him last week and he is the SWEETEST boy! He is super affectionate with everyone he meets, and loves to snuggle,” the Illinois rescue wrote.
He quickly became a favorite among the staff and volunteers, who couldn’t get enough of his playful spirit and love for cuddles.
Now, Buckethead is enjoying life in foster care, learning what it means to feel safe and loved. Once his foster stay is complete, he’ll be ready for adoption — and for the happy forever home he’s always deserved.
After everything he went through, one thing is certain: this resilient pup will never be overlooked again.