It’s not uncommon in India to see wells, drains, pits, and tanks of all types left open with no barrier or warning signs alerting passersby. More often than not, though, it’s animals who fall victim to these dangers.

Animal Aid Unlimited volunteers recently heard strange cries coming from an open septic tank. Knowing that something was stuck down there, they extended their camera behind a wall to see the source of the sounds. The images they captured were heartbreaking. A small puppy, too tired to keep swimming, kept dipping below the surface of a pool of human waste. The pup was moments away from drowning when they managed to get him out safely.

If you’d like to support Animal Aid Unlimited, please visit their site and donate! They do truly wonderful work and help the animals that otherwise would be forgotten.