Pup Lost In Rugged Canyon Rescued, Thanks To MVAS

MISSION VIEJO, CA — A dog in distress was rescued from a remote canyon with the help of thermal drone technology and the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center.

On Friday, Animal Services responded to a call from a Dove Canyon resident who reported that strong winds had startled their dog, causing it to run away. According to the city, the dog was last seen between Dove Canyon and Coto de Caza.

The drone search, however, was limited due to the winds and ultimately unsuccessful.

Saturday morning, the animal services center got a new report from a resident who heard a dog barking in a remote canyon almost a mile from where the pup was originally lose.

Using the department's thermal drone, officers pinpointed the dog's exact location before conducting a rescue through rugged terrain and dense brush.

The pup was reunited soon with its owner, and was reported to be in good condition.

"Mission Viejo Animal Services is proud to support community members when they need it the most and remains committed to providing professional, compassionate and innovative animal rescue services," Animal Services Director Brynn Lavison told Patch.