Over the weekend, a dog named Rocky, an Akita breed, gained widespread attention by conquering England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, and then refusing to descend. The exhausted canine had also sustained a paw injury during the ascent, making the descent even more challenging. At around 6:25 pm on Saturday, a distress call was placed, prompting an immediate response from the Keswick mountain rescue team, comprising 13 dedicated volunteers.
Upon reaching Rocky and his owners, who were beginning to feel the chill, the team ensured the dog’s comfort and skillfully transported him down the mountain to safety using sleds and carriers. Remarkably, despite weighing 33kg, Rocky was described as a “delight to carry,” maintaining his composure and regal demeanor throughout the entire rescue operation.
Nevertheless, the rescue team’s social media post about the incident garnered a mix of reactions from the public. Some criticized Rocky’s owners, contending that dogs should not be taken on arduous hikes. Others came to the dog’s defense, highlighting the possibility of his exhaustion due to the injured paw.
One individual commended the rescue team for their commendable efforts, revealing that they own an American Akita themselves and were not surprised by Rocky’s behavior. They described Akita dogs as independent and resolute, emphasizing that when they decide “that’s enough,” it truly is. Another person shared a personal anecdote about their labradoodle going on strike after covering nine miles of a ten-mile coastal walk, eventually resorting to calling a taxi to reach their car.
In essence, Rocky’s adventure underscores the significance of adequate preparedness for outdoor activities, including equipping oneself and one’s pets with appropriate gear, evaluating the trail’s difficulty, and remaining vigilant about potential hazards.