MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) – What started as a dog owner’s worst nightmare ended in a heartwarming ending thanks in part to a multi-agency effort.
Mesa County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook that an out-of-town visitor and his dog were visiting the Colorado National Monument when they pulled the car over to enjoy the view. When he opened the door to take her along, the dog leaped out of the vehicle and ran toward the ledge. She then fell over 100 feet off the edge before landing on a shelf.
MCSO Deputy Derrick Strauch responded with a dog-catching pole in case he could reach her, but it turned out not long enough.
Mesa County Search and Rescue was then called in to help. The team climbed down to the pup before they brought her back up.
Despite the long fall, the dog was up and walking fine. She was taken to emergency veterinary services where it was determined she only suffered minor scrapes and bumps but no broken bones or internal injuries, according to Mesa County Search and Rescue.
The dog’s owner was overjoyed and relieved after being reunited with the pup, search and rescue said.
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“We are proud of the efforts that made this successful rescue possible and are thrilled to see the pup safely back in the arms of its owner,” Mesa County Search and Rescue wrote.
Search and rescue thanked MCSO and park rangers for their efforts in saving the dog.
“If dogs have nine lives like cats, she definitely used one in her adventure on the Monument, but we are so grateful to have an amazing Search & Rescue team ready to spring into action for all who need it!” MCSO wrote.
