SAN ANTONIO – Everything happens for a reason — at least, that seems to have proven true for Lucky, the labrador.

Lucky’s story caught the attention of several potential adopters after a close call on train tracks last week. A timely rescue from Animal Care Services brought Lucky out of harm’s way and into the arms of his forever family.

San Antonio Animal Care Services Officer Edwards was called on March 30 to the Union Pacific Line near I-35 and Loop 410 for a report of a dog lying on the tracks.

When he arrived, he found a leash tied to Lucky’s neck, secured with a nail on the tracks. As Lucky tried to free himself, the leash only tightened more and more.

Although Lucky was hesitant to trust anyone, including Officer Edwards, he was able to be secured.

A train was approaching the scene moments later, but the officer was able to free Lucky from the tracks safely and just in time, according to ACS.

Since the rescue, Lucky has been waiting for his forever family. That is, until Friday when his soon-to-be owner came to meet him.

“As soon as I met him, I could tell he was exactly the kind of dog that would fit in with my family. He was so chill and unbothered,” Mr. C told ACS.

The shelter requires potential adopters to interact with the animal they’re interested in for a minimum of 30 minutes before starting the application process to make sure it’s a good fit, according to ACS.

“They hung out, got to know each other, and then Mr. C filled out the adoption paperwork,” shelter staff said.

On Monday, Lucky was neutered and microchipped before he went to his forever home with Mr. C and his family. He now goes by “Duke” and is happily adjusting to his new home.

ACS is still investigating if Lucky was tied up to the tracks intentionally or if his leash happened to get snagged.