A Christmas gift, a puppy that hadn't been owned long enough to receive a name, was trapped at the bottom of an abandoned 12-foot well after its curiosity got the best of it, officials said. 

Around 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Dona Ana County Animal Control officials arrived at the home on the 5000 block of Holsome Road in Las Cruces. 

The owner told officials she knew about the well opening, and had barricaded to keep the puppy from falling in. 

Members of the Organ Volunteer Fire Department and Las Cruces Fire Department were also called to assist. 

Animal Control officer Sunne Lucero said a remote-control camera was used to monitor the puppy's condition inside the hole. 

Four hours later, a rigged PVC pipe fitted with a piece of rope was used as a catalyst to pull the puppy to safety. 

"It was truly a team effort," Lucero said. "Some of us had tears of joy in our eyes when we saw the puppy come out of that well, and you could definitely tell she was happy to be back in her owner's arms." 

Officials said the puppy was in good health and did not need medical attention.