Rescue of Blind Hiker and Guide Dog on Oregon Trail

A Blind Hiker and Guide Dog Rescued by US Coast Guard After Being Stranded for Days

A heartwarming story of survival emerged from the Rogue River Trail in southwest Oregon, where a blind hiker and his loyal guide dog found themselves stranded for days in the scorching heat. Thanks to the heroic efforts of a US Coast Guard helicopter crew, the 55-year-old man and his canine companion were safely rescued.

The hiker, who is legally blind, set off on the trail with a friend and his guide dog on July 3. However, by July 6, the hiker began to exhibit signs of heat exhaustion, prompting his friend to leave him with food and water while he sought help in Gold Beach.

Due to the lack of cellphone service in the remote area, rescue crews were unable to reach the hiker until Monday when the friend returned. A Bureau of Land Management ranger and two deputies from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office embarked on a 6-mile trek to locate and assist the stranded hiker.

Upon locating the man and his dog, it was determined that an extraction plan was necessary due to the rough terrain and the hiker’s inability to walk. A rescue swimmer and basket were deployed from the Coast Guard helicopter to lift the hiker and his canine companion to safety.

The hiker and his dog were then taken to EMS at Grants Pass Airport for medical evaluation. Despite the hiker’s experience, the extreme heat proved to be a formidable challenge.

Commander Jay Kircher, the pilot in command of the rescue mission, commended the hiker and his friend for their adherence to the safety plan and emphasized the importance of staying put and awaiting rescue in such situations.

In a lighthearted moment during the rescue, Kircher recalled the sight of the hiker’s dog peeking out of the rescue basket, providing a touching moment of relief amidst the tense operation.

The successful rescue serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the US Coast Guard and highlights the unwavering bond between a blind hiker and his faithful guide dog in the face of adversity.