
A pet dog was safely returned to its owner after a dramatic rescue operation in San Francisco on Tuesday, October 28. The dog had fallen from a steep oceanside bluff at Fort Funston, a popular area for dog walking known for its precipitous cliffs. It became stranded on a narrow ledge, clinging to the cliff face for over 20 minutes before help arrived.
The San Francisco Fire Department was dispatched to the scene to conduct a high-angle rescue. According to department spokesperson Lt. Jonathan Baxter, the dog was located approximately 70 to 80 feet down the sandy, unstable cliffside. The situation required a technical response, with firefighters establishing a rope system to lower a rescuer to the animal's position. The entire tense ordeal concluded with a successful cliffside rescue operation that brought the dog back to safety.
Firefighter Samuel Menchaca rappelled down the cliff to reach the frightened animal. Initially wary, the dog soon warmed up to its rescuer. After being secured in a special pack, it was hoisted to the top of the bluff. Once on solid ground and confirmed to be uninjured, the dog was reunited with its relieved owner. Multiple reports noted the dog's joyful reaction, as it wagged its tail and gave kisses to the firefighters who saved it.
The Associated Press report on the rescue highlights the happy reunion and the professional execution by the rescue team. Incidents like this are not uncommon at Fort Funston, and fire officials often remind the public to be cautious and keep pets leashed near the cliff edges. Thanks to the quick and skilled response, this particular incident had a heartwarming conclusion, with US News confirming the joyous outcome for the pet and its owner.



