The chubby rat was freed — released, after a quick assessment, back into the sewer system he calls home.

Before disappearing, however, he seemed to send a message to those who’d come to save him: “He made a brief look back at us, as if to say, ‘Thank you — and yes, I know I need to go on a diet,'” Steinbach said.

But the rodent wasn’t the only thankful one that day.

Following the successful rescue, those there to help were greeted by two children from the family who’d placed the call to save the rat’s life.

It was their kind spirits that got the whole thing started — and they came with a picture they’d drawn to express their appreciation to those who’d heeded their call.