Veterinarian perspective on LA River dog saved from watery grave

Vernon, the LA River dog (Mark Boster, LA Times)

Has your dog ever come across a watery environment that was above their athletic capacity?  Imagine the terror your dog would face if they were stuck in the cold, winter run off in the Los Angeles River.

My attention was recently captivated by a live KTLA news report of a dog being swept away into the Los Angeles River by Southern California’s latest winter storm.  The story was so compelling that I kept running on the treadmill until the dramatic conclusion.  Fortunately, a helicopter delivered a rescue worker to transport the struggling dog back to safety.

As I witnessed this series of events, it was initially unclear how the rescue would occur or if the dog would ultimately free himself from the watery predicament.  The first broadcast images showed the German Shepherd mix dog taking a rest by sitting upright with his hind end submerged in water.  He was visibly able to walk, yet his movement was limited by the current and escape was not readily possible.  

The overhead helicopter motivated his gradual progression to river’s edge where he then unsuccessfully tried to scale the steep incline.  He achieved a brief respite with his front limbs elevated on the incline’s cement surface.  A short time later, the rescue worker approached on foot to restrain the terrified dog.  The helicopter then transported them to safety.  The rescue worker sustained multiple bites in the process.

Southern California’s recent rash of wintry weather has created a day to day hazard for both people and pets.   As I remained glued to the television screen, my clinical mind explored the multiple possible health consequences this dog could potentially incur.

Miscellaneous floating debris (sticks, metal, etc) could traumatize the poor dog’s limbs as he stood, walked, or swam in the water.  The longer he remained in the frigid water, the more likely he would suffer adverse health effects from hypothermia (low body temperature).  Prolonged hypothermia would be hazardous to all body tissues by slowing down blood flow, heart rate, and oxygen delivery.  He reportedly suffered from mild hypothermia, which is fortunate considering the time he was exposed to the frigid water is unknown.

News reports also detail the trauma his nails incurred as he frantically attempted to scale the abrasive surface of the river’s cement surface. Otherwise, he suffered no significant injuries.

The owner of the dog, subsequently nicknamed “Vernon” (after the city where he was rescued), has not yet been found.  Vernon lacked an identifying tag or microchip, which would have greatly aided his prompt return home (see Disaster preparedness- identification tips for pets and their owners).  

Vernon certainly captivated the attention of many concerned pet aficionados with his story of survival.  Vernon’s mishap should motivate all pet owners to ensure their pet always wears up to date identification.  Ideally, both a cervical (neck) collar and microchip should be present to ensure a lost pet will be returned to their rightful owner.

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