(CENTENNIAL, Colo.) — A family who had a tough summer almost faced heartbreak again when a new puppy escaped through a hole in the fence, but with the help of Animal Law Enforcement (ALE) the puppy was returned home.

According to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR), a family in Centennial had a rough summer after their beloved puppy was stolen. After months of grieving, the family decided to open their hearts again and welcomed a new puppy into their home.

However, when their older dog Maya discovered a hole in the fence, she escaped and the puppy followed her. Maya eventually found her way home, but the puppy was nowhere to be seen.

While the family was worried about losing their new family member, ALE Officers Hutchinson and Scott were wrapping up their shift, ready to head home when they got a call that a puppy had been found wandering in a garage.

The officers found the puppy, which had a microchip, and reunited her with her family.

The family was so thrilled, they wrote a letter to the mayor of Centennial, praising Officers Hutchinson and Scott for their dedication and quick action.

“A huge shoutout to our Centennial team, Officer Hutchinson, Officer Scott, and all of our ALE officers for being the true heroes of our community; your unwavering commitment to our furry friends makes all the difference! You didn’t just save a puppy—you brought a family back together,” wrote HSPPR.