160-Pound Dog Rescued from Mountain Trail After Paw Injuries

Many nature enthusiasts love to explore the great outdoors with their canine companions, but sometimes the rugged terrain proves too challenging for the dogs. This was the case recently when a Great Pyrenees found himself unable to continue on a hiking trail, prompting a group of rescuers to step in and carry the hefty dog to safety.

In a Facebook post from Cannon Beach Rural Fire Protection District (RFPD) in Oregon, it was shared that a 160-pound Great Pyrenees was hiking with his owner on Saddle Mountain. However, midway through the hike, the dog refused to continue due to painful sores and cuts on his paws.

Cannon Beach RFPD explained that while leashed dogs are allowed on the trail, it’s not particularly dog-friendly. The sharp wire fencing on the ground, which provides stability for human hikers, can cause significant discomfort for dogs’ bare paws.

“Over the years, we have had several calls for dogs that needed assistance off the mountain due to dehydration or cut/raw paw pads,” the department wrote on Facebook.

Fortunately, a team of rescuers quickly assembled to transport the dog to safety. Photos depict the group, which reportedly included members of the Hamlet Volunteer Fire Department, Gearhart Volunteer Fire Department, and Seaside Fire & Rescue, carrying the Great Pyrenees on a stretcher through the trail.

The rescue operation was no easy feat, especially given the dog’s considerable weight, but the effort was well worth it to alleviate the dog’s suffering. Online commenters praised the rescue team for their dedication and kindness.

“Poor baby! Thank you for coming to the rescue,” one person commented.

“Oh my gosh, poor puppers!! Thank you for rescuing him, he was probably in pain a long time before he stopped,” another wrote.

This incident highlights that not every hiking trail is suitable for dogs. Cannon Beach RFPD advises pet owners to take precautions to protect their pets, such as using dog booties or gradually toughening their paw pads.

“Just as we humans can build up calluses by incremental exposure to rough surfaces, you can do the same with your dog if you plan on frequent hikes or know they’ll be walking on rougher surfaces throughout their life,” they wrote. “Start with shorter periods of time on these surfaces to let the pad build up toughness over time.”