Police in Colorado arrested a driver last week after he tried to switch places with his dog to avoid a drunk driving charge.

The Springfield Police officer saw the driver put the dog into the driver’s seat and slide into the passenger seat after stopping the car for driving 52 mph in a 30 mph zone. The driver got out of the vehicle on the passenger side and told the officer he was not driving.

“The male party showed clear signs of intoxication and when asked about his alcohol consumption the male party ran from the Officer,” police said. The officer caught up with him about 20 yards away.

Police learned that he was traveling from Las Animas to Pueblo and got lost in Springfield. He also had two active warrants for his arrest in Pueblo.

Baca County deputies arrived on scene to assist, taking the suspect to a hospital for medical clearance before booking him into the Baca County jail on the warrants. He was also charged with driving under the influence, driving while ability impaired, driving under suspension, speeding 20-24 mph over the limit, and resisting arreast.

Police said they let the dog go “with just a warning” into the custody of an acquaintance of the driver.

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[Featured image: Shutterstock]