Summer is rapidly approaching! A group of hikers recently learned firsthand how dangerous the oppressive heat can be for a dog. Fortunately, a brave and kind park ranger came to the rescue, carrying an overheated dog down a mountain trail on his shoulders and saving his life.
Lexie Daniel and a group of pals hiked the Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area’s hilly trails. The day was scorching hot, with temperatures in the 90s. They came across a man and his dog who were overheated and in distress. They cheerfully offered the dog their water supply, but it was insufficient. The dog was quite enormous, and the man was concerned that his dog would not be able to carry him. Back down the hill, the trail was many kilometers long.
Everyone in the group was concerned about the dog’s safety. He was frustrated and in trouble. He was not getting any better by drinking water. The park service had been summoned to assist. Supervisory Park Ranger Kris Salapek didn’t have to look long to find them on Mount Tammany’s route. He put the sick dog over his shoulders and began the descent without hesitation.
Kris Salapek, a supervisory park ranger, trekked for almost an hour while carrying the enormous dog across his shoulders. He also took the time to go into a creek bed and cool down the overheated dog. Salapek submerged the dog in the water, wetting his fur and tongue. For the dog, this step could have made all the difference. By the time the dog and his hero arrived in the parking lot below, witnesses said the dog had improved noticeably.
The dog’s owner went ahead of the rescuer on the trail. He was able to get to his car and have it ready to bring his dog to the veterinarian’s office. Lexie was able to contact the man later and was relieved to learn that the dog had recovered completely. “This is a HERO,” Lexie commented on Facebook. We are extremely fortunate to have rangers like these who prioritize animals before themselves.
For his bravery, selflessness, and strength, this ranger deserves enormous praise and a standing ovation.” This story serves as a sharp reminder of how harmful hot weather can be for our pets. Thank god for this robust, capable park ranger who was ready and willing to assist!