For Zach Hackett, it was merely a typical day as he embarked on a hike in Summit County, Colorado. This 33-year-old individual had veered off the designated path, but upon discovering that the intended route was unfeasible, he opted to retrace his steps.
While he was making his way back down, he caught a subtle, indistinct yip that resembled the sound of a dog. Upon investigating some toppled trees, he discovered he was correct! A trembling black-and-white Sheltie was sitting there, isolated in the wilderness.
What this man from Breckenridge, Colorado, was unaware of at the moment was that the Sheltie was not just any ordinary stray canine. Here’s the reason why…
Riley Had Disappeared Five Weeks Prior
Even though Zach was unaware of the complete narrative, he chose to assist this unfortunate furball regardless. He cautiously approached, attempting not to frighten him, as the dog was clearly terrified and in disbelief. Moreover, he was shivering from the chill, with the temperature only at 45 degrees outside.
The dog was named Riley. He was an 8-year-old Shetland Sheepdog that had been absent for over five weeks by that time.
Riley’s owner, Mike Krugman, was fervently searching for him. When he reached his limit, he sought help from Summit Lost Pet Rescue, who worked diligently on the case.
Zach Was At The Right Location – At The Right Moment
Zach called out to Riley, tempting him with a treat, yet the dog remained still. Zach quickly realized that Riley lacked the strength to respond or even rise. All he could manage was to slightly lift his head, and that was the extent of it. Evidently, his yip had been his utmost plea for assistance that drained his energy…
Upon nearing him, Zach wrapped him in a windbreaker, cradled him, and commenced carrying him back down the mountain.
After transporting him for approximately two hours to his home, he resolved to give the dog a soothing bath followed by plenty of water. He seemed a bit improved, yet still too feeble to do anything, which is the reason Zach opted to take him to the Summit County Animal Shelter.
Upon their arrival at the facility, Catherine Adair, the AC officer, immediately identified Riley. She was astonished that it was the very same dog they had been searching for over a month.
He was evidently emaciated, frail, and thinner than before, additionally suffering from a low body temperature. The positive news was that Riley’s life was not at risk – all he required was a gradual recovery process.
Emotional Reunion
Catherine hurried to inform Mike, Riley’s owner, and he arrived at the shelter in no time!
The SLPR team swiftly shared about Riley’s successful rescue, inciting hundreds of responses from those who had been following his tale all along.
Mike was overjoyed to finally hold his beloved dog, and Riley appeared immensely relieved in Mike’s embrace!
Mike mentioned that he had let Riley take his usual pre-meal stroll around their expansive 36-acre property, but when he went to prepare his food – Riley was nowhere to be found.
Mike ventured out to search for the dog, and upon reaching the barn, he discovered that his five-foot fence was covered in snow, making it simple for Riley to escape.
It’s likely that the dog climbed over the fence and exited the property, but he evidently wandered too far into the mountains to find his way back alone.
The other possibility, according to Mike, was that the dog set out searching for his beloved owner – Mike’s late spouse, Pam. She had recently passed away due to a heart condition, which left Riley heartbroken.
However, thanks to Zach’s altruistic gesture, Riley was finally safe and back home – starting anew with his 74-year-old owner.
Working Towards A Full Recovery
Due to Riley having sustained a loss of half his weight during his time away, a lengthy recovery period was ahead of him. Mike took him to the animal clinic in Breckenridge, Colorado, where he spent several days recuperating.
It was indeed a miracle that he escaped without life-threatening injuries and managed to survive through such dire conditions; evidently, this little guy is a true warrior!
Thanks to his heroic rescuer and a touch of destiny, Riley was finally right where he always belonged – home!