Every dog owner knows that pups can be wildly unpredictable. One moment they’re calmly walking by your side, and the next, they’ve darted off after a squirrel or something else that caught their attention.
At times, their curiosity can get the better of them, and without realizing, they stumble into trouble.
That’s exactly what happened to Smudge, a pup who managed to get himself stranded in a place no one expected — a steep cliffside that left his rescuers puzzled about how to reach him.
A Walk Gone Wrong
Smudge and his owner were enjoying what seemed like a normal stroll along a trail near the Botanical Gardens in St. Helens, Oregon. Everything appeared uneventful — until suddenly, it wasn’t.
In a blink, Smudge lost his footing and tumbled off the trail, landing on a steep slope where his owner couldn’t reach him.
Panicked but determined, the owner quickly contacted Columbia River Fire and Rescue for help. Within minutes, a team was on their way to the scene, ready to figure out how to get Smudge back safely.
Rescue Plans In Motion
When the firefighters surveyed the area, they realized the rescue wouldn’t be simple. The slope was far too dangerous to attempt without additional expertise.
That’s when they called in the Columbia County Technical Rescue Team (TRT) for backup.
Made up of firefighters from several departments across the county, the TRT specialized in high- and low-angle rescues — exactly the kind of situation Smudge had gotten himself into.
The crew quickly set up their gear and devised a strategy to retrieve the pup. One rescuer would rappel down the cliff with a rope secured around his torso, reach Smudge, and then signal for both of them to be pulled back up to safety.
Their carefully executed plan worked flawlessly. Within moments, Smudge was lifted back into his owner’s arms.
Overcome with relief, the owner hugged his pup tightly, grateful beyond words to everyone who risked their safety to bring Smudge back.
A Lesson For All Dog Owners
Smudge’s adventure is a powerful reminder of how quickly a fun day out can turn risky. Dogs often forget that paths can end abruptly or that cliffs can be dangerous.
That’s why it’s always wise to keep your pup on a leash or fitted with a secure harness while hiking. A little precaution can prevent accidents and keep curious pups safe during outdoor adventures.