Loyal dog survives 10 weeks in Colorado Mountains, found guarding owner's

Dogs are considered man's best friend, and throughout the ages, this lovely animal has consistently shown his loyalty to its humans. In a touching incident, a dog was found alive guarding her dead owner in the Colorado mountains.

According to the rescuers, the dog and her owner went missing 10 weeks ago. The dog had survived the time by hunting small animals.

On August 19, 71-year-old Rich Moore along with his Jack Russell terrier named Finney, left to climb the Blackhead Peak but failed to return home.


Rescuers found the body of Moore on October 30, with Finney sitting beside him. Rescuers termed it a "magnificent story of survival".

According to Delinda VanneBrightyn, of Taos Search and Rescue, they carried out an unsuccessful days-long search on the steep western side of the mountain between where Mr Moore's car was parked and the peak.

A few weeks later, the body of Moore was discovered by a hunter in the San Juan Mountains with Finney still alive. She had lost almost half her body weight and weighed around six pounds. The next day a recovery crew flew to the area and Finney was taken to a veterinarian. She is now with Moore's family.

According to the Associated Press, Ms VanneBrightyn said that Finney survived probably by hunting small animals like mice and avoiding predators like mountain lions, coyotes, and bears.

"Jack Russells are pretty fierce, I have to say, they're tough little dogs," she said. Furthermore, she added that Finney's "magnificent story of survival" is a testament to her dedication and loyalty to her owner.

She said that they were glad that Finney was now back in the Moore family and though they lost their loved one they still had the wonderful loyal dog.

Archuleta County Coroner Brad Hunt said that Moore had died of hypothermia, which can cause people to become disoriented and confused.

Moore's friends while recalling him said that he was an experienced hiker and had earlier hiked to Blackhead Peak before with a friend.

Speaking about Finney, Moore's wife said that the dog was very attached to her husband. She said that she was shocked to know that Finney had survived for 10 weeks.

FAQs

What is a Jack Russell Terrier breed?
Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs who were bred for fox hunting in North Devon. They are extremely intelligent, fearless, and vocal dogs.

What and where are the Colorado Mountains?
The Colorado mountain ranges are the tallest in the US state of Colorado. These mountains contain many peaks mostly covered with trees.