Watch: Dog Falls 100 Feet Down Canyon in Colorado’s National Monument And Survives

In what can be described as a dog with nine lives, one dog found itself in a ruff patch after she fell 100 feet down a canyon in Colorado’s National monument and survived. The monument is a popular destination for hikers who often take their dogs as well, however, one needs to be careful because as sure footed as pups might be, the terrain can be dicey especially if wandering to close to the edge of cliffs. This dog might have gotten too curious and lost her footing, however hers was a miraculous escape.

A Sudden Misstep at the Canyon’s Edge

The dog and its owner had pulled over to enjoy the monument’s sweeping views when the incident occurred. As the owner opened the car door, the excited pup jumped out and ran toward the ledge. Unfamiliar with the steep drop, the dog fell over 100 feet, landing on a shelf below. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office described it simply on Facebook: “She didn’t understand the concept of the canyon.” It was a moment of alarm for the owner, who could only watch as their pet disappeared over the edge.

According to the National Park Service, The Colorado National Monument, located near Grand Junction, Colorado, consists of 32 miles of the Colorado Plateau and it features “towering monoliths within a vast plateau and canyon panorama.”

Help Was Close at Hand

Deputy Strauch from the sheriff’s office arrived quickly, armed with a dog-catching pole, hoping to reach the stranded animal. But the depth of the drop—over 100 feet—required more expertise. The Mesa County Search & Rescue ropes team was called in, carefully descending to retrieve the frightened dog. Their Facebook post noted the team’s readiness: “It was up to the ropes team to rescue the scared pup.” After a tense operation, they brought her back up, relieved to see her walking despite the fall.

Safe and Sound with a Vet Check

Once back on solid ground, the dog appeared shaken but unharmed, a small miracle after such a drop. The owner, grateful beyond words, took her straight to an emergency vet for a checkup. The sheriff’s office added a light touch on Facebook: “If dogs have nine lives, she definitely used one!” The story, posted with a video of the rescue, spread quickly online, earning praise for the team’s efforts and relief from those following along.

Posting on their Facebook page, Mesa County Search & Rescue said, “thanks to the swift coordination between our Mesa County Search and Rescue team, Colorado National Monument Park rangers, and the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. We are proud of the efforts that made this successful rescue possible and are thrilled to see the pup safely back in the arms of its owner.”  Thankfully all’s well that ends well.