Miracles happen every day…
TLC 4 Furry Friends & Tahoe PAWS, an animal search and rescue organization, shared A touching rescue story that reminds dog parents of the importance of microchips and proves that you never give up hope.
A pit bull mix named Russ went missing in late August near Lake Tahoe, California. The dog is scared by something and escapes from its owner.
The father of the dog involved searched for Russ and contacted Animal Services to report him missing, but was forced to evacuate the area due to the Caldor Fire.
The Caldor Fire burned 221,775 acres and thousands were forced to leave the area.
“Russ is thought to be missing”, TLC 4 Furry Friends Written On Facebook.
But the dog has survived on its own for almost 4 months.
He was spotted in the snow by a hiker in a remote area on December 16, but was unable to move and growled at anyone who came close.
Animal control was contacted but was unable to make the journey through the 5-foot-deep snow, so Wendy Jones, director of TLC 4 Furry Friends, and volunteers assisted.
The rescue team made the strenuous journey to the top of the steep mountain in the hope of rescuing the lost dog. They eventually found him resting under a tree and were unsure at first if he was still alive.
But then he opened his eyes and raised his head.
Leona Allen, one of the most experienced rescuers and animal watchers, told San Francisco Chronicle, “I keep reliving the moment when he opened his eyes and lifted his head, and only the joy and excitement inside of me was overwhelming. It was another life lived happily, warmly and safely. ”
After gaining his trust, they put him on a sled wrapped in blankets and carefully made their way down the mountain.
“They could put him on a sled – on top of a volunteer so he would be kept warm and calm. Because it was dark, the trip down the mountain was slow and methodical,” posted rescue.
Russ was taken to the vet to be examined and scanned for the microchip he had. His father, who lives in Riverside County, was delighted to hear that his friend was alive and well. Volunteers continued to visit Russ until he was reunited with his father.
Thankfully this story has a happy ending. The search and rescue team urges all pet owners to have their pets microchiped and up-to-date.
Everyone was in tears after reading the touching rescue story. Person commented, “Never give up… look how amazing and resilient animals can be.”
Rescuers have been praised for risking their lives to save the lost puppy. A follower Written, “Oh my gosh… I’m crying right now!!! Wendy – thanks so much for having him!!! How happy he is to be at home, poor thing, what he has to go through! 😢 Fire, snow and other wild animals, poor thing! It just shows that it needs a village of lovers! 🤗I can’t thank you enough for hanging out! “
Follow TLC 4 Fury Friends on Facebook to see more great rescue stories and how you can help.
