The family of three-year-old pup Zola feared the worst and immediately called for help.
After Zola fell, the family could briefly see her head around 30ft below them in the rocks. Then, the poor dog fell further out of view.
Desperate rescue mission
It wasn’t long before the Alpine Rescue Team descended on Colorado’s Torreys Peak. With determination and hope, a team of 26 rescue members set out to locate Zola. It was a race against time to find her. The treacherous terrain made the mission daunting, but they pressed on. After climbing for about an hour, they spotted a “speck of black” atop a towering 2,000-foot snow couloir.
Although they couldn’t be certain from that distance, the unusual shape convinced them to continue their ascent. As they peered over the edge, their eyes met the heartwarming sight of Zola, alive and wagging her tail.
Miraculous recovery
Despite suffering significant injuries during her 600-foot fall, Zola remained surprisingly calm. Wilder and her team carefully fashioned anchors and ropes to reach the distressed dog. After a delicate rescue operation, Zola was placed in a bag and carried to safety.
The dog’s emotional journey didn’t end there, as she was later reunited with her overwhelmed and grateful family.
Zola’s miraculous rescue is a big lesson to pet owners who enjoy outdoor adventures with their furry companions to prioritise safety, know their pet’s limits, and be prepared for the unexpected.
