A Safe Rescue for a Big Pup
Firefighters from the Cannon Beach Rural Fire Protection District successfully rescued a 160-pound Great Pyrenees from Saddle Mountain in Oregon after the dog sustained injuries to its paws. The pup was carried down the mountain on a stretcher, highlighting the challenges of hiking with dogs on this particular trail.
Injuries and trail hazards
In a Facebook post, officials shared the rescue details along with photos. They noted, “Although Saddle Mountain signage and the state park website states that dogs are allowed but must be on a leash, it is not very dog friendly. Over the years, we have had several calls for dogs that needed assistance off the mountain due to dehydration or cut/raw paw pads.”
Saddle Mountain, located near Seaside, Oregon, has an elevation of 3,288 feet and is known for its challenging terrain. Officials recommend that dogs wear booties to protect their paws from the trail’s hazards.
Trail conditions and safety advice
The trail is covered with welded wire fencing to provide traction and stability, but these wires can stick up and pose a danger to pets. “The trail has copious amounts of welded wire fencing on the ground to provide traction and stability of the trail. Many of these sharp wires are sticking straight up. As well, walking on wiring and rocks for an extended amount of time can be very rough on your fur baby,” the post explained.
The rescue operation involved coordination with the Hamlet Volunteer Fire Department, Gearhart Volunteer Fire Department, and Seaside Fire & Rescue. Officials advise dog owners to acclimate their pets gradually to such surfaces to build up the toughness of their paw pads.
Public reactions and recommendations
The incident prompted suggestions from the public for better signage and restrictions. One commenter suggested, “Maybe new signage can be put up to explain this and forbid dogs on the trail? Many won’t know this about the trail’s effects on dog paws, especially with current dog friendly signage.”
Others shared their experiences and concerns: “When I hiked this trail recently, I vowed to never take my pooch here with those chicken wires,” and “That chicken wire is awful. I know it’s supposed to be for traction, but it tripped me multiple times.”
The consensus among commenters was clear: while dogs are allowed on the trail, it may not be suitable for larger breeds or those unaccustomed to the rough terrain.
This rescue serves as a reminder for pet owners to carefully consider the conditions of hiking trails and to take necessary precautions to ensure their pets’ safety. The Cannon Beach Rural Fire Protection District’s efforts underscore the importance of preparedness and community support in such situations.