A family of five dogs — a mother and her four puppies — were finally rescued after days spent trapped in a car as residents fled a massive wildfire.
Last week, Northern California was hit with a massive, devastating Park Fire, the result of suspected arson. Spreading across more than 380,000 acres, it is the fifth-largest wildfire in California history.
Thousands of residents across four counties were forced to evacuate. One Butte County resident was fleeing a remote area when their truck became disabled and had no choice but to leave the truck behind — along with their dogs: two adult rottweilers and their four puppies.
Because of the wildfires, no one could reach the dogs and they were trapped in the truck for days. But when it was finally safe, two members of the Butte County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue made it their mission to get the dogs.
According to a release from the department, BCSO member Trevor Skaggs and pilot Conner Smith flew into the disaster-stricken area. Trevor then ran 1.5 miles to the dog’s location. The adult male dog, the pups’ father, had unfortunately died, but all the puppies and their mother were still alive.
The dogs were very tired and thirsty, and Trevor gave them water and bites from a protein bar. He then led them back to the helicopter, and the pilot flew them to Chico Airport, where they received care from members of the North Valley Animal Disaster Group.
The Park Fire has caused a lot of devastation and damage: as of now 192 structures have been destroyed, and many people have been displaced, worrying if they will have homes to return to.
But the rescue of these dogs, and their unlikely survival, is a glimmer of hope and positive news amidst this disaster.
“It’s been a horrific few days for our community and we are grateful to be able to share this amazing story,” the Butte County Sheriff’s Office wrote.
The fire has been 14% contained, and the suspected arsonist has been arrested. Firefighters and emergency workers are still hard at work containing the fire and aiding the victims.
What a miracle these pups and their mother survived after being trapped for days — thank you to the rescuers who went out to save them!
