Atlas is a big dog. Nearly 130 pounds of him set off on a mountain trail in New Mexico, made it a few miles, and then decided his hike was over. His legs had nothing left, and the walk back to the trailhead was just as long as the one out.
Someone called for help. Deputies with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Open Space unit hiked up to reach him. Getting a dog that size down steep, uneven ground is not a simple lift-and-carry job, and it took strength and teamwork. The team took turns hoisting Atlas onto their backs and shoulders, letting him ride while they picked their way down the mountain.
All told, the trip out covered roughly four miles and took close to five hours, according to the sheriff’s office. Photos the department shared show Atlas draped across rescuers and their packs, using the ride to save whatever energy he had left.
What this means for your dog
Big dogs can tire and overheat faster than their enthusiasm suggests, especially on rocky climbs. Watch for a slowing pace, heavy panting that does not settle once you stop, lying down and refusing to move, or a dog who suddenly wants to be carried. Bring more water than you think you need, plan a turnaround time instead of a summit, and know your own limits too, because hauling even a medium dog down a mountain is serious work.
If you would rather your dog help with the load than become it, our dog backpack training guide is a good place to start.