Firefighters rescue elderly retriever from steep bluff

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Firefighters aided in the rescue of an elderly Labrador retriever that became stuck on a steep bluff Saturday afternoon.

Gus’ family heard him barking from about 30-feet down a densely vegetated escarpment near Smugglers Cove Road and called for help, according to Deputy Chief Charlie Smith of Central Whidbey Island Fire and Rescue.

Five firefighters responded to the scene, located near South Whidbey State Park.

First responders and the pet owners were able to make their way down to Gus, who has bad hips, and help him back up, Smith said. It took about 45 minutes to retrieve the dog.

No ropes or rappelling were necessary for this rescue, Smith said.