A hiker’s vigilance and compassion saved a dog from a life-threatening situation on Lookout Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona. The Arizona Humane Society (AHS) reported receiving an urgent call from the good Samaritan who discovered a canine in distress, nestled in a small, rocky cutout on the mountain.
Assistance and Rescue Efforts
The hiker remained with the dog, a 2-year-old Shar-Pei mix they named Bright Eyes, for nearly two hours until AHS emergency animal medical technicians Tracey Miiller and Ruthie Jesus arrived. Bright Eyes was found to be severely dehydrated and suffering from cuts on her paws and a wound on her hind end.
Due to the dog’s weakened state, Miiller and Jesus alternated carrying her down the mountain to a waiting ambulance. Bright Eyes was transported to AHS’ Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital, where she received fluids, antibiotics, pain medication, and treatment for stomach issues.
Unknown Circumstances of Stranding
The AHS release mentioned that the duration of Bright Eyes’ stay in the mountain cutout and the circumstances of her arrival there remain unknown. “If not for the quick thinking of a good Samaritan and two AHS Emergency Animal Medical Technicians jumping into action to save the pup, chances are she would not have survived much longer,” the organization stated.
Bright Eyes’ Unique Discovery
Bright Eyes was named for her striking amber-colored eyes, which were the only feature that allowed the hiker to spot her in the rocky terrain. “She literally is the same color as the dirt,” Jesus explained in an AHS video, emphasizing how well the dog blended into her surroundings.
Initial Reluctance and Rescue Details
Initially scared and reluctant to leave her hiding spot, Bright Eyes allowed Jesus to pet her but resisted being removed from the den. “She was really sweet in letting me pet her head, but she absolutely did not want to come out of that den,” Jesus recounted. “So, we kind of just had to pull her out.”
Descent and Recovery
Once freed, Bright Eyes eagerly drank water provided by her rescuers, though she was too weak to walk due to torn paw pads and her other injuries. Jesus described the challenging descent down the mountain on a slick, rocky trail, during which they took turns carrying the dog. “She was just an absolute angel,” Jesus said.
Current Condition and Reflections
Currently, Bright Eyes is recovering at AHS’ facility, where she is receiving ongoing care. Reflecting on the rescue, Jesus expressed her joy and relief. “This was just an absolute high for me,” she said. “We were so elated to be able to get her off the mountain. Again, she was just so dehydrated and I think she’d probably been up there several days and that was probably her last day. This good Samaritan really saved her life.”
Read More: https://people.com/dog-rescued-after-being-found-hiding-in-small-cutout-side-mountain-arizona-8643105
