Injured Golden Retriever Is All Smiles Being Helped Down NH Mountain After Hike

An exhausted and injured Golden Retriever is all smiles while volunteers helped bring him down the NH Mountain after a hike turned into injury.

On September 17, 2024, the NH Paw Rescue posted on social media detailing an incident they had been called to, where a pup needed some help. Here's what we know.

Crosby, a 7.5-year-old Golden Retriever, was hiking with his parent and his dog brother when the rescue team had to be called on his behalf.

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"While on a strenuous hike of the Franconia Ridge Loop, Crosby’s [parent] noticed him slowing down and taking longer breaks approximately 5 miles into the almost 9-mile hike," NH Paw Rescue shared in an incident report posted on Facebook.

Unfortunately, the pup suffered an injury while hiking and exhaustion kicked in. "The weather was stable, but Crosby’s [parent] lacked lighting, enough gear to stay comfortable, and did not have canine evacuation supplies," the notice continued.

Some members of the NH Paw Rescue hiked ahead of the full team to link up with Crosby and his family as fast as possible. The team was officially called at 3:30, and the full NH Paw Rescue team arrived at Crosby's location at around 6:30 pm, thanks to some passing hikers who could help carry Crosby down until they met with the rescue team.

According to the incident notice, Crosby and the team reached the bottom of the mountain "just after 7:15 p.m. "

"Crosby’s paws were bandaged, covered by booties, and he jumped into his [parent's] vehicle to rest and head home. Crosby’s owner was planning to seek veterinary care," they shared.

Along with the details on what happened during the hike, NH Paw Rescue also shared a few photos of Crosby, including a sweet one in which he looks really exhausted but smiles at the same time.

People in the comment section thanked the rescue team for helping as much as they had.

One wrote, "Great work, rescuers; nice analysis too. Crosby, I hope you get a few treats and a lot of love."

Another shared, "Incredible work from this special rescue group. Makes my doggie heart happy."

Someone else added, "Thank you to all that helped everyone get down safely."

Another wrote, "He looks happy! He knows he’s in good hands!"

One shared, "Aww, I bet this pup is so relieved."

Tips and Advice on Being Prepared Before Going on a Hike with Your Dog

The NH Paw Rescue Center shared some valuable tips and takeaways from Crosby's rescue for other dog parents who like to hike with their pups.

Take necessary supplies: The rescue team says that when you're hiking with your dog, you need to have the appropriate supplies and equipment with you for your dog as well. "In particular, make sure you have warm/protective clothing, a headlamp, a map, extra food/water, and a 1st aid kit," they write.

Know your dog's hiking ability: We all think our dogs can do anything, but even if you believe your dog can do a long hike, be "conservative" about how well you think they'll handle it. "Stay on easy/moderate terrain until you and your dog have more experience," the rescue team suggests.

Pack a dog rescue harness: You should have the right supplies and first aid equipment. Of course, we hope never to need them, but we need them if we do. You also should have "dog 1st aid supplies including bandaging, vet wrap, and paw booties," the rescue team suggests. "Most dogs will not like having paw booties on, but they can enable a dog to walk out with minor paw pad damage."