'Extremely Dehydrated' Dog Dies After Being Rescued From Arizona Mine Shaft

An “extremely dehydrated” dog rescued from a mine shaft in a remote area north of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, on Tuesday, November 5, died early Wednesday morning, according to police.

Fred, a seven-year-old male shepherd mix, was discovered in the mine shaft by a geologist working in the area. The geologist said the dog was alive but wasn’t moving, and he could not get to it.

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team responded, along with Animal Control Officers, and a technical rope rescue team entered the mine shaft and managed to bring the dog back to the surface.

Fred was taken to an animal clinic, but did not respond to treatment. He died Wednesday morning. The clinic described the dog as being in “critical condition, extremely hydrated, and with extensive injuries to the mouth and head, but no broken bones.”

Blood work showed an extensive infection and kidney failure, and extreme electrolyte abnormalities most likely associated with dehydration and severe starvation.

“We were happy he was able to spend his last night in a warm place with loving arms,” a message on the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page said.

Police said enough donations were collected to cover the dog’s medical costs. Credit: Mohave County Sheriff’s Office via Storyful