A group of cavers on an excursion in a western Virginia cave turned into heroes when they rescued a dog found 40 to 50 feet underground. The cavers were exploring Giant Caverns in Narrows, Giles County when they made the unexpected discovery. The first member of their party spotted the dog and alerted the others, who quickly sprang into action.
The dog, later named SPAR-C, was shivering and in need of help. The cavers used their rescue training and improvised a harness to lift her out of the cave. The entire rescue operation took about three hours, but the dog emerged safely and began to recover.
After being taken to a veterinary hospital and then to the Giles County Animal Shelter, SPAR-C was found to have no broken bones. Although she initially had difficulty using her back legs, with medication, rest, and good nutrition, she was expected to make a full recovery.
The shelter described SPAR-C as a 'living miracle' and expressed gratitude for her rescue. They continued to seek her owner but indicated that she would soon be ready for adoption if her healing progress continued.
SPAR-C's rescuers, who initially named her 'Cave Dog,' decided on the name SPAR-C, which stands for small party assisted rescue with the 'C' added for canine. The cavers were relieved that the dog did not become another casualty in the cave, which was filled with animal remains.
SPAR-C's story serves as a heartwarming reminder of the kindness and compassion that can be found even in the depths of a cave. Her resilience and the efforts of her rescuers have given her a second chance at a happy and healthy life.
