Lost Dogs Rescued on Black Canyon City Trail Thanks to Social Media

When two beloved dogs vanished on a rugged Arizona hiking trail, it took a community-both online and off-to bring them home.

A Four-Day Adventure Ends in Relief

Spike and Snickers, two loyal pups, went missing on the Black Canyon City Trail and spent four long days fending for themselves. Their owner, Kathleen Paulson Wesley, turned to the local Facebook group “Lost & Found Pets of Black Canyon City,” sharing heartfelt pleas and photos, hoping someone would spot her missing companions.

Social Media to the Rescue

On April 25, hiker Steve Eisenreich set out on the Black Canyon City Trail with his own dogs. About 1.5 miles from the trailhead, he spotted two weary dogs by the river bottom-immediately recognizing them from the Facebook posts circulating in the community. Spike and Snickers had stayed side by side throughout their ordeal, a testament to their bond.

The Rescue Effort

Eisenreich didn’t hesitate. He offered the thirsty dogs water and quickly contacted a family friend of the owner, as well as the Daisy Mountain Fire Department. Spike, exhausted and weighing a hefty 96 pounds, couldn’t walk any farther. Using a dog rescue sling, Eisenreich carried him on his back until he met up with Daisy Mountain firefighters, who helped bring both dogs safely back to the trailhead. Fellow hiker Conrad Begaye joined in to assist along the way.

Happy Reunion and Grateful Hearts

Back home, Wesley shared her relief and gratitude on Facebook, updating the community that Spike and Snickers were “tired and a bit weak” but recovering well. She credited the power of social media and the kindness of strangers for their safe return, writing, “It is because of FB sharing the missing dogs post, and people being on the alert and willing to help others.”

The Power of Community

This heartwarming rescue highlights how quickly a community can mobilize-both online and on the ground-when pets go missing. Social media posts, alert hikers, and dedicated first responders all played a role in reuniting Spike and Snickers with their family.