A construction worker heard whimpering and found the months-old Australian cattle dog wedged between boulders, the County of San Diego said.

“He tried repeatedly to pull the puppy out but could not get his hips through and needed to head home for the day,” the county said.

After the worker contacted the county’s Department of Animal Services, Alyssa Moreno, an officer with the department, asked him to send over some photos of the trapped puppy so she could determine what she needed for his rescue, according to the county.

“When she saw the pictures, she knew immediately she was going to need help,” and called in Valley Center firefighters, according to the county. The county said rescuers found the puppy, who “was dehydrated and whining in discomfort,” after spotting the tire the construction worker left to mark the dog’s location.

“I was not planning on leaving there until we got him out,” Moreno said in the release.

Firefighters “used a long strap and a flat wooden board to support the puppy’s body” as they tried to free him, the county said. A nearby property owner also brought “some soapy water to help lubricate the rocks.” “After more than an hour,” he was freed, the county said.

“I was happy with the ending,” Moreno said. “We were able to get him out, get him warmed up and give him some water and food.” 

The puppy was taken to the county’s Department of Animal Services, where a veterinarian assessed him, the county said. “Luckily, he checked out fine besides some dehydration and he is fully recovered,” the county said.

Now, the dog, who staff has named “Snack,” is looking for a new home, according to the county. “He’s a handsome guy, he’s a little shy but friendly and affectionate. He likes attention,” Moreno said.