Fort Worth Fire Department’s Unusual Rescue: The Story of Jake

By Steve Hartman
Correspondent Steve Hartman, known for his segment “On the Road” on CBS News, shares stories that touch the heart, showcasing unique individuals across America.

On May 29, 2026, a unique incident occurred at Fire Station 8 in Fort Worth, Texas, which serves as a ‘safe baby site’ for parents unable to care for their child. This time, however, it was not a baby, but a dog named Jake, left with a plea for help. A note attached to Jake read, “His name is Jake…If you really care about helping babies, please help my baby.”

Fort Worth Fire Captain Jason Bryant described Jake to CBS News as “super healthy, super strong,” highlighting the care he had received from his previous owner, Tom Miner, a homeless man. Miner had been forced into homelessness after his landlord insisted he could not keep his dog. Although Miner loved Jake deeply, he felt compelled to give him up, hoping Jake would find a better life.

“It is, hands down, the hardest decision I ever made,” Miner confessed.

After leaving Jake at the fire station, Miner ran away, unable to face the goodbye. However, the firefighters chose to keep Jake as part of their crew, providing him with a new family. In a turn of fortune, the fire department also helped Miner find a new home. A local business donated a camper, offering him shelter and a sense of belonging.

Miner expressed his gratitude, saying, “This is my home. And there ain’t no place like home.” The firefighters supported Miner by providing supplies and arranging dental care, aiding him in getting back on his feet. They plan to reunite Jake with Miner when he is ready.

“If we can hand Jake back over to Tom, I think that’s the happy ending everybody wants,” said Capt. Bryant. He predicted emotional scenes, stating, “I think there’ll be 30 grown men bawling.”

The fire department clarified that this exception was unique and advised against the public leaving dogs at fire stations.