Fido on the freeway: Nevada troopers corral dog roaming on US 95 near Pecos

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) - Traffic cameras were rolling as a black Rottweiler mix casually trotted down southbound U.S. 95 near Pecos – sometimes roaming into traffic lanes.

Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Jason Buratczuk said it caused quite the commotion that shut down part of the freeway for about a half-hour Wednesday around noon.

"So far, about a half-hour, we were trying to corral this dog and get it off the freeway," Buratczuk said.

NHP Trooper Loy Hixson took the call and did his best to catch the dog, although at times the crafty animal would sneak away from him.

"I'm sure we looked a little silly running around after a dog on the freeway, but at the end of the day, we are animal lovers, so we want to make sure the dog gets home safe," Buratczuk said.

Other drivers and some Metro officers stopped to help corral the dog.

It was a combined, coordinated effort that ultimately helped catch the dog and load it safely into Hixson's patrol vehicle.

"We're just glad we were able to get it off the roadway and that it wasn't hurt," Buratczuk said.

For NHP troopers, it's just another day on the job. According to Buratczuk, it's a familiar sight for them.

"We've had three animal calls today with dogs running in the shoulder," Buratczuk said.

From dogs to coyotes and horses, Buratczuk says they see it all.

Buratczuk said if you see an animal on the freeway, call them either at 911 or *NHP and they'll quickly respond.

The Rottweiler is now at the Animal Foundation and will hopefully be reunited with its owner if they come forward.