When curiosity led Rilee, a playful dog from Placerville, California, to explore an abandoned mine shaft on her family’s property, disaster struck. In the blink of an eye, she fell 60 feet down a borehole, leaving her stranded deep underground.
Her owner, Kimberlee Adams Norwood Mickelson, quickly realized what had happened and wasted no time in calling for help.
A Delicate Rescue Mission
Firefighters from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District responded immediately to the distress call. Upon arriving at the scene, they were shocked to discover just how deep Rilee had fallen.
“Our firefighters have responded to dogs that have fallen down into open mine shafts before, but nothing this extensive or serious,” said Captain Jacob Poganski.
The team knew they were facing a challenging rescue operation. Employing a confined space entry permit, they devised a plan to lower a rescuer down the vertical shaft using a rope system.
Rilee’s Calm Amid Chaos
As the rescuer descended, Rilee initially appeared anxious but quickly calmed down when she realized help had arrived. Her cooperation made it easier for the team to secure her in a harness and safely lift her to the surface.
“The dog was extremely anxious as the rescuer approached but was calm and friendly when she realized someone was there to help her,” Poganski added.
The rescue mission lasted about an hour and 15 minutes. Thanks to the firefighters’ expertise and quick action, Rilee was brought to safety without major injuries.
“Miracles Do Happen”
Once above ground, Rilee greeted each of her rescuers with wagging tails and warm licks, expressing her gratitude in the most heartwarming way.
“Once the dog emerged from the mine, she happily greeted all of the rescuers individually, as if to say, ‘Thank you!’” said Poganski.
Aside from a few minor injuries, Rilee emerged from the ordeal unscathed. Her owner was overjoyed, sharing her gratitude in a heartfelt Facebook post:
“I’m forever grateful for the effort, care, and concern these guys had and for risking their own to save my Rilee! Miracles do happen! She’s ALIVE!!!”
A Testament to Compassion
This daring rescue is a reminder of the bravery and dedication of first responders. For Rilee’s rescuers, the gratitude of her and her owner reaffirmed why they are so passionate about their work.
Despite the challenges, the operation was a resounding success, proving that every life is worth saving. As Mickelson said, “Miracles do happen!”
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