In the devastating Park Fire, bravery and compassion emerged, highlighting the resilience and dedication of those fighting the blaze. On Wednesday evening, as frantic evacuations took place, a resident’s truck became disabled. Forced to abandon the vehicle, the resident left behind two adult Rottweilers and their puppies, hoping for a miracle.
The truck’s location was reported to responders, but the encroaching fire made immediate access impossible. Determined to save the stranded animals, Trevor Skaggs, a member of the Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (BCSO), took to the skies in a helicopter the next day.
Upon landing, Skaggs faced a 1.5-mile trek to reach the dogs. He found the mother and her puppies alive, though exhausted and desperately thirsty. Sadly, the puppies’ father had not survived the ordeal. After hydrating the survivors with water and sharing bites from his protein bar, his perseverance and patience paid off as the mother and her puppies followed him for the 1.5 miles back to the helicopter. The rescued animals were then flown to Chico Airport, where they were handed over to the North Valley Animal Disaster Group for care.
This heartwarming rescue story stands out amidst the destruction brought by the Park Fire, providing a glimmer of hope and highlighting the extraordinary efforts of those working tirelessly to save lives including our pets.
Photo was taken by Butte County Sheriff Search and Rescue.
