Community Rallies to Save “Lucky,” an Injured Dog Found Along I-70

What could have ended in heartbreak for an abandoned, injured dog in Green River has instead turned into a story of compassion, resilience, and community strength.

On Saturday, a man whose truck had broken down along Interstate 70 near mile marker 152, just west of Green River, left his vehicle overnight. When he returned the next morning, he made a startling discovery: a four-year-old dog lying injured beneath his truck.

The dog — now named Lucky — was in rough shape. Unsure of his chances, Green River Animal Control contacted local EMTs Annalee Howard and Tammy, who quickly came to the scene to assess his condition.

Severe Injuries, but Hope Remained

Howard recalls that Lucky’s injuries appeared consistent with being dragged, as the pads on both his front and back paws were badly worn.

“I’ve seen crazy things on the interstate that people walk away from,” Howard explained. “I never want to think the worst — but it’s clear this poor boy had been through something terrible.”

Although Lucky wasn’t malnourished or dehydrated, the physical trauma was severe. At first, there was discussion of euthanizing him, both due to his pain and because there were no funds available to cover the costly veterinary care he would require.

“No one wanted that outcome,” Howard said. “We promised the Mayor that if Lucky was released to our care, we would raise the money to cover his medical treatment.”

The Power of Community: The Lucky Fund

Determined to give Lucky a fighting chance, Howard immediately launched the “Lucky Fund” GoFundMe campaign. Within hours, donations and words of encouragement began pouring in from community members and animal lovers far beyond Green River.

Lucky was rushed to the Moab Veterinary Clinic, where a team of veterinarians worked for hours to carefully clean and debride his injured feet. The good news: there were no broken bones or internal bleeding. The bad news: Lucky had lost several toenails and may still require the amputation of two toes.

Even so, Dr. Mulligan of the Moab Veterinary Clinic reported that Lucky was in surprisingly good spirits.

“Provided his wounds stay clean and there are no complications, he has an excellent chance of recovery,” Howard wrote on the GoFundMe page. “He’s strong, healthy, and resilient. Everyone is hopeful.”

A Brighter Future

For now, Lucky is safe, cared for, and on the road to healing. Once he is medically stable, he will be made available for adoption through the Humane Society of Moab.

Funds raised through the Lucky Fund are being directed not only to cover his treatment, but also to support the Humane Society’s efforts to respond to other animal emergencies in the Green River area.

“This community’s response has been overwhelming,” Howard said. “It’s clear that Lucky’s story has touched people — and together, we’re making sure he truly gets the second chance he deserves.”