Firefighters and police officers pulled off some amazing animal rescues in 2023

It happens like clockwork. Another year, another impressive set of animal rescues by firefighters and police officers within the US and abroad. And now in its sixth edition, this annual tradition (still technically not a tradition, but we’re just gonna go with it) continues to expand, and our first responders continue to inspire. In fact, the FPPA Facebook page highlighted some exciting firsts (first time for us, at least), including: First animal rescued from a hammock, the first ever alligator rescue, and first ever Taylor Swift concert dress saved. Yes, Taylor truly is everywhere.

Read on for more of this year’s best animal rescues…

The 10 Best Animal Rescues of 2023 (In No Particular Order)

When Oliver the owl got the goal, but needed an assist

When firefighters did their best Mario and Luigi impression

When Elvis Pigsley absolutely stole the show

When a snake inside a wall contributed more than its fair share of nightmare fuel

This head-scratching moo-stery

When we got to use our most favorite mayo pun

When a cat became just a little too curious

When firefighters had to deal with a load of bull

When this momma duck was the queen of efficiency

When firefighters used a paddle boat to rescue a doggy paddler