It was an honest mistake, and one easily made at this time of year in Colorado Springs.
Firefighters were called out to rescue what they thought was a litter of puppies trapped in a storm drain, their mother nowhere to be found.
But the eight wee babies turned out to be different kind of pups – red fox pups.
Watch the news cast below to find out what happened to the pups and why wildlife officials are asking people to call animal experts should they stumble across any puppies this time of year.
Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links.