Many people would have looked the other way — or worse.
But not these animal lovers and firefighters in Germany.
The animal rescue group, Berufstierrettung Rhein Neckar, and Fire Brigade Bensheim-Auerbach, joined forces to free a particularly chubby stuck in the grate of a sewer drain.
All of it unfolded on video on Sunday in the German town of Bensheim.
You can hear the poor rodent squealing for help.
At least eight firefighters, as well as the animal rescue workers, were on hand for the unusual call.
They propped up the heavy manhole cover, gently snared the rat and tried to push it through from underneath.
It’s also evidence whether they are big or small, animal lovers will help them all.
Even rats — generally treated as pests; not a pets.
The rat was safely freed — and apparently unharmed during the ordeal.
It was sent back into the sewer where it scurried away.
“Together with Berufstierrettung Rhein Neckar,” the fire brigade said, “the animal was freed from his helpless situation by the forces.”
Extra adorable.
Some local children who first found the rat thanked everyone for saving the wayward rodent.
They even drew the rescuers a picture of the rat surrounded by hearts and a thank-you.
Photos Berufstierrettung Rhein Neckar/Facebook