Without hesitation, Fredman called 911 and grabbed a knife. Carefully, he cut the cord and freed the dog, who gasped for air as soon as he was released. Still unable to walk, the frightened dog was gently carried by Fredman to KC Pet Project for emergency care.

There, the dog was identified by a microchip as Max, a 16-year-old pup whose owner, Dee Vaughn, had just reported him missing. Vaughn was relieved and emotional to hear Max had been found — but devastated to learn how.