A dog heroically helped his owner get rescued after their vehicle fell down a steep ravine in northeastern Oregon. The incident occurred on June 2 when Brandon Garrett and his four dogs were driving on a remote US Forest Service road. One of the dogs, Blue, traveled approximately 4 miles back to their campsite, alerting Garrett's family that something was wrong.
Garrett's family, unable to descend the steep terrain, called 911 after locating his vehicle the next day. Authorities found Garrett around 90 meters from the car, where he was heard screaming for help. He had managed to crawl out of the wreckage, but was unable to move much due to his injuries. U.S. Forest Service workers and the search and rescue team used chainsaws to clear a path and set up a complex rope system to safely pull Garrett out.
The man was airlifted to a regional hospital where he is currently recovering. His three other dogs were found alive at the scene. Blue's incredible journey to alert Millhollin and others proved instrumental in Garrett’s rescue. According to Garrett, the accident happened when he began to fall asleep while driving, causing him to lose control of the vehicle. He was thrown through the windshield and found himself waist-deep in a creek upon regaining consciousness.
Garrett's friend Millhollin had become worried when Blue arrived at the camp alone with cuts on his nose. A search was promptly initiated which eventually led to the discovery of the crashed vehicle. Garrett’s brother, who grew up in the area, was able to pinpoint potential crash sites along the road, which led them to the exact location.
Despite the harrowing experience, Garrett is now recovering at home with three of his dogs by his side. He is grateful for his dog's loyalty and instincts. Millhollin, whose vehicle Garrett was driving, made it clear that the truck's loss is insignificant compared to the well-being of his friend and the dogs.
- The rescue operation was a coordinated effort that involved both the Baker County Sheriff's Office and county search and rescue teams. The teams demonstrated exceptional skills and resourcefulness by constructing a high rope pulley system to safely extract Garrett from the ravine.
- Brandon Garrett is a long-time dog lover, and his bond with his pets played a crucial role in his rescue. Blue, who is half Pitbull, Australian Shepherd, and Whippet, displayed remarkable intelligence and navigational skills that surprised no one who knows him.
- Garrett is planning to raise funds to replace the truck, which belonged to his friend Millhollin. However, Garrett's friends insist that his recovery and health are the top priorities right now. They are simply glad that everyone – Garrett and the dogs – made it through the ordeal.
