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'Miracle' Dog Found Alive In Underground Virginia Cave

July 18, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Narrows, Virginia.

A heartwarming rescue story has emerged from Narrows, where a dog was miraculously saved after falling 50 feet into a cave.

A group of cave explorers made the discovery while exploring an underground cave littered with animal skulls and bones.

Giles County Animal Shelter

Jesse Rochette, one of the brave cavers, played a crucial role in the rescue. With a piece of salami in hand, he rappelled 50 feet down into the cave to gain the pup's trust.

"She instantly came over and sucked up the salami and she loved that," Rochette recounted. The team then wrapped the shivering dog in space blankets, foam pads, and an old jacket hood they found in the cave to keep her warm.

"Over the course of 3 HOURS, the cavers above worked to safely bring her back to the surface, while Jesse Rochette (pictured above) stayed in the darkness," Giles County Animal Shelter shared. "He spent this time gaining her trust so he could strap her to his chest and begin their ascension together. Once they reached the surface, she was rushed to Virginia Tech's Vet School."

Giles County Animal Shelter

After numerous tests and x-rays, it was determined that Sparsy had miraculously suffered no broken bones. She was diagnosed with Lyme disease, some spinal inflammation, and temporary difficulty using her back legs.

"Her HERO Jesse came by today to check on her!" the shelter said. "And has affectionately named her Sparsy (AKA SPAR-C; Small Party Assisted Rescue- Canine)."

As of now, Sparsy is doing well under the care of the veterinary team. The search for her owner is ongoing, but in the meantime, she is in good hands and receiving the best possible care.