San Antonio Water System turns puppy rescue into kids' book
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The book and stickers. Image: Courtesy of SAWS
The San Antonio Water System is selling a new children's book based on the true story of the time its crews saved a puppy from a sewer line.
Why it matters: The tale of Pipa's rescue captured hearts across the city and the nation. Now, SAWS is using it to teach kids about sewer safety.
Catch up quick: Pipa was one of three puppies who fell into a sewer main on the South Side in 2023. While the others were retrieved quickly, it took nearly eight hours to remove Pipa.
- A SAWS employee later adopted her.
Zoom in: The book "Pipa's Big Adventure" is aimed at school-aged readers. From the perspective of Pipa (Spanish for pipe), kids will see the underground world of wastewater infrastructure.
- SAWS' education team is already using the book for school visits.
- Each copy includes the story in English and Spanish, and comes with a sticker book.
What they're saying: "We created 'Pipa's Big Adventure' to help kids understand what happens in our sewers — and why it's so important to keep grease and wipes out of the pipes," Anne Hayden, SAWS' communications director, said in a statement.
- "Children are natural advocates. We hope Pipa's story sticks with them and inspires conversations at home."
What's next: You can buy a book for $20 at SAWS payment centers.
- Proceeds go toward Project Agua, a payment assistance program for people struggling with their water bill, and to Friends of Animal Care Services.