August 16, 2016
WASART received a call to assist with a dog over a steep slope. This time it was at Pinnacle Peak Park, near Enumclaw.
Shelby, a 2 year old female Golden Retriever, had fallen over the edge about 1/2 mile up from the trailhead. The owner was out for a hike with two dogs when Shelby got too close to the edge and slipped about 50 feet down. Initially it was not known if she was injured. She could not be seen but could be heard barking.
King County Sheriff Muckleshoot Tribal Police Chief Keeney was first on scene followed by Drs Horton and Herzstein from Country Animal Hospital in Enumclaw. The doctors are climbers as well as veterinarians, so they used a rope system to reach the dog and determine she was okay. Once down, though, they did not have the additional equipment to get themselves and Shelby back up onto the trail.
WASART responder Greta arrived on the scene with the equipment van and assessed the situation. Shortly thereafter responder Aaron arrived and, after communicating with Greta, brought additional equipment up with the generous help from two bystanders.
Meanwhile responder Bill and two Animal Control Officers from Regional Animal Services of King County drove around to the west side of the peak in case Shelby decided to self rescue and leave by the back way.
This turned out to be unnecessary, as the first team had managed to put a harness on the dog, and were in the process of raising her. The owner and Chief Keeney from Muckleshoot Tribal Police assisted with the lift.
Once Shelby was out safe, the equipment was packed out, all responders accounted for, and we headed for home, very pleased that Shelby was out and unharmed.
Tumble, Checking for Spooked Dog