This tale of a lost dog is one that can only be described as a miracle.
A dog that became separated from his owner as a wildfire spread through the Sierra Nevada mountains in California was found alive four months later, trapped in five feet of snow.
Russ, a pit bull-terrier mix, began his months-long journey in the wild in August when he got spooked and ran away from his owner's vehicle in Tahoe. His owner, who was in the area for work, made a report to Animal Services and searched for Russ, but was then evacuated due to the Caldor Fire.
"It was assumed that Russ had been lost for good," Tahoe PAWS officials wrote on Facebook.
Fast forward to December 16, when Tahoe PAWS was contacted about a dog trapped in the snow near Twin Peaks, west of South Lake Tahoe. A backcountry skier spotted the animal but couldn't find a way to help.
"It was in the snow, apparently unable to move, and was growling at the individuals who observed it," Tahoe PAWS wrote on Facebook. "El Dorado County Animal Services Officer Kyle Shumaker was notified, but he was unable to access the area due to the five-foot snow depth and steep terrain."
Volunteers at TLC 4 Furry Friends and Tahoe PAWS quickly sprang into action. They suited up with snowshoes, dog rescue equipment and a sled from Officer Shumaker.
"The dog was tracked up the mountain, and finally located under a tree not moving. The volunteers were elated when he opened his eyes and lifted his head," Tahoe PAWS said. "They were able to place him on the sled – on top of a volunteer so he was kept warm and calm. Since it was dark, the trek down the mountain was slow and methodical."
The dog was taken to a veterinarian, who discovered a microchip and a name: Russ. Somehow, the dog survived a wildfire, snowstorms, dangerous terrain and potential deadly encounters with wildlife.
Within days, Russ was reunited with his owner in Riverside County, California.
"When contacted, the owner was ecstatic to find out that his dog was alive," Tahoe PAWS said. "Volunteers with TLC 4 Furry Friends & Tahoe PAWS visited Russ every day to remind him that he was loved until he could make the journey home. We're happy to report that Russ and his human have since been reunited."
The rescue organization said the situation should serve as a cautionary tale for all pet owners.
"This is a great reminder that microchipping your pet and maintaining the registration in your name is important," Tahoe PAWS said. "It's also essential that you report your pet to the local Animal Services office if it goes missing."
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