When asked to highlight a trait that dogs are known for, most individuals would likely say loyalty.
And they would be right, as dogs truly exemplify loyalty. It’s a fact that many of us recognize, yet often overlook.
It isn’t until we encounter a story like this one that we are reminded of the profound loyalty our canine companions demonstrate each day.
A Jack Russell Terrier named Finney has earned the titles of miracle dog and wonder dog for her demonstration of loyalty in a heartbreaking tale of loss and survival that has moved countless people globally.
A Horrific Incident
On August 19th, a passionate hiker from Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Rich Moore, along with his faithful dog, Finney, embarked on an expedition to climb Blackhead Peak, a 12,500-foot mountain situated 35 miles from their home.
Regrettably, they did not come back.
When Rich did not contact his wife, Dana Holby, who was visiting her sister in Montana, she promptly alerted her son and the authorities.
The vanishing of Rich and Finney initiated the most extensive search and rescue operation in the county’s history, with over 100 volunteers scouring the area for days.
Missing posters were distributed around the town, helicopters searched the skies for any trace of them, and both people and dogs combed the mountain, but without success.
“I was overwhelmed thinking about Rich and Finney. Rich knew that trail, and I figured he’d just go up and come back down as planned. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen.” Dana Holby stated to Outside Online.
Seventy-two days after Rich and Finney mysteriously disappeared, a hunter tracking deer stumbled upon a body and a dog on a wooded ridge of Blackhead Peak, as reported by the Sheriff’s office.
Upon receiving the call, the Archuleta County Sheriff’s office assumed the dog was deceased as well, but they were in for a surprise.
“On October 30th, the remains of missing hiker 71-year-old Rich Moore of Pagosa Springs were found, alongside his dog, who was found alive and by his side,” Taos Search and Rescue announced in their Facebook post.
To everyone’s astonishment, Finney had miraculously survived in the wild for over two months without departing from her owner’s lifeless body.
“It’s truly emotional to witness the loyalty of that dog,” TSAR member Delinda Vanne-Brightyn shared with CNN.
Loyal To A Fault
Finney shared a profound bond with Rich, remaining inseparable even after his passing.
When rescuers reached the site, she remained vigilant, baring her teeth, barking, and ready to defend her owner.
In those two months, she had lost half her body weight and sustained a minor injury, but her loyalty to her beloved owner never wavered.
Finney likely survived by catching small rodents and drinking from nearby streams… acting just as any true Jack Russell Terrier would.
Officials suspect that Moore succumbed to hypothermia and exposure.
“It’s hard to believe that Rich is gone. Finney’s return feels surreal,” Dana shared.
The family’s current priority is to ensure Finney remains safe and healthy, especially after her valiant efforts. “I would do anything for her. I’m just grateful to have her back. She’s an integral part of our family,” Dana expressed.
Though Dana mourns the loss of her husband, she believes that Rich sent Finney to protect her.
After Finney’s remarkable exhibit of courage and loyalty, she has become a sensation worldwide.
“People often tell me how remarkable the story is. Then they see me and express their condolences.”
Finney, small yet formidable, is undoubtedly a wonder dog.
