This site is a lifesaver. My 4-yo son was screaming for 45 minutes that he couldn't find "Polka" (one of the polka-dot botias). I remember reading about finding them in the filter and sure enough there Polka was. She (?) appears a little stressed, but not damaged and ate a good dinner.
Thanks to all the postings I saved the fish and my sanity.
And yes, their names are "Polka" "Dot" and "Botia". Kids
Glad to hear your loach is OK! A wonderful story in comparison to mine with my kuhli last week. Have you made sure to block the way back in? You wouldn't want to it killed by the impeller while your kids anxiously look on to watch you save the day again.