Rambo’s story begins on the bustling I-40 in Gallup, New Mexico.
A small black dog, later named Rambo, was found living on a median strip, scavenging scraps from nearby businesses.
This little dog’s remarkable ability to survive in such a harsh environment captured the hearts of many.
His tale isn’t just one of survival but also of how his legacy now unites various animal rescue agencies across the state to save other dogs in need.
The first sighting of Rambo happened in February, when concerned locals reported a stray dog navigating the dangerous stretch of highway.
Gallup Animal Protection Manager Tiffany Hubbard, along with her team, sprang into action.
However, Rambo proved to be incredibly elusive.
He had a knack for evading capture, slipping away from every trap set for him.
The team faced constant frustration but never lost hope of rescuing the determined canine.
Enter Sergio Sobredo, a contract emergency room doctor from Florida, who was staying at a hotel near the interstate.
Sobredo noticed the little black dog and, struck by his resilience, decided to take action.
He named the dog Rambo, inspired by the dog’s tenacity and spirit.
Sobredo reached out to local animal control, determined to get help for the stray dog he had grown fond of from afar.
His determination marked the beginning of a statewide effort to save Rambo.
Sobredo’s relentless efforts didn’t go unnoticed.
His emails and calls prompted a broader response from animal rescues across New Mexico.
Among these was NM-DOG, an organization dedicated to rescuing dogs in dire situations.
Angela Stell, who leads NM-DOG, decided to join the mission.
They began working on deploying a specialized trap called the Missy Trap, designed to capture elusive dogs like Rambo.
This advanced trap, equipped with cameras and remote controls, was their best shot at safely capturing him.
The collaborative efforts to save Rambo brought together a network of individuals and organizations, all sharing the passion for rescuing dogs.
Despite their best plans and the sophisticated Missy Trap in the works, Rambo continued to evade capture.
His ability to navigate the median and avoid humans showed his incredible survival instincts but also posed a significant challenge for his would-be rescuers.
The community watched with bated breath, hoping for Rambo’s safe capture.
Tragically, before the Missy Trap could be deployed, Rambo was struck by a vehicle on the freeway.
The news was devastating to all who had been involved in his rescue.
Those who had dedicated time and resources to save him were heartbroken.
This accident highlighted the dangers that stray dogs face and underscored the urgency of efforts to rescue them.
Rambo’s tragic end was a stark reminder of the perils that these animals face every day when living in the big city.
Despite the sorrow of losing Rambo, his story sparked a renewed commitment among the rescuers.
Sobredo, who had initially named Rambo and spurred the rescue efforts, continued to support NM-DOG.
Together with Angela Stell, they decided to see the Missy Trap project through to completion.
Rambo’s legacy would not end with his untimely death; instead, it would serve as a catalyst for future rescues.
The trap would be dedicated to Rambo’s memory, a symbol of hope and determination.
The Missy Trap, largely funded by Sobredo and sponsored by NM-DOG, is now a beacon of hope for other feral dogs.
Equipped with cameras and remote controls, this sophisticated device is designed to safely and humanely capture elusive stray dogs.
It represents the culmination of efforts from various agencies and individuals united by Rambo’s story.
While Rambo himself could not be saved, the Missy Trap stands as a reminder to what can be achieved when communities come together for a common cause.
Rambo’s story, though filled with heartache, ends on a hopeful note for other dogs.
His legacy lives on through the Missy Trap, which will save countless other dogs from the dangers of living on the streets.
The collaboration of animal protection teams across New Mexico continues, inspired by a little black dog who once roamed the median of I-40.
Rambo may be gone, but his spirit endures, bringing people together and saving lives in his memory.
To learn more about Rambo’s story watch the video below.
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