CHP rescues chihuahua that snarled Highway 101 traffic. ‘A potentially ruff situation’

California Highway Patrol officers in Santa Maria tackled an unusual road block Monday.

The trio, Sgt. Dylan Youngblood plus officers Jason Traughber and Gabriel Zucker, were dispatched to southbound Highway 101 near Main Street in Santa Maria.

“Their mission? To rescue a pint-sized, gold-colored chihuahua from a potentially ruff situation with the help of compassionate citizens,” according to the CHP-Santa Maria social media post. “Kudos to these guardians of the highways for proving that protecting and serving extends to our four-legged friends too!”

Rescue of the wayward dog snarled traffic for a short time in the area Monday afternoon.

The incident drew comments of praise including from Debbie Warren, a woman who often undertakes dog rescues in the Santa Maria Valley and beyond.

“Awesome job, HUGE Thank You and Kudos to these wonderful, caring CHP Officers that saved the life of this precious soul,” she wrote. “Not only did they save this dog’s life, they saved potential accidents and human injuries. Outstanding job CHP Sergeant Youngblood, Officers Traughber and Zucker!”

This story was originally published January 31, 2024 at 11:02 AM with the headline "CHP rescues chihuahua that snarled Highway 101 traffic. ‘A potentially ruff situation’."