Hiker's Dog Leads Him To Missing Golden Retriever Trapped In A Deep Coal Pit

February 28, 2025

Today's good news story comes from Pottsville, Pennsylvania.

A family’s week-long search for their missing golden retriever, Freddy, ended in a heartwarming reunion—thanks to a kindhearted hiker and his own loyal dog.

hiker rescues dog coal pit
Collin and Pam

Collin Leiby, a wedding photographer and avid hiker, was trekking through Sharp Mountain in Pottsville when his own dog, Bass, led him slightly off the trail. That’s when Leiby spotted movement near a deep coal pit below—a golden tail flicking among the rocks.

When he looked closer, Leiby realized it was Freddy, the 6-month-old golden retriever whose disappearance had captured the community’s attention. The pup had fallen about 10 feet into the pit and was too exhausted to climb out on his own.

“A tear came to my eye,” Leiby shared. “I started calling his name. He slowly got up and started walking toward us.”

Freddy attempted to scale the icy wall, and Leiby reached down to help. Once safely on solid ground, the pup eagerly nuzzled and jumped on his rescuer, relieved to be found. Leiby offered him water, clipped on a spare leash, and guided him down the mountain—Bass walking faithfully by their side.

Meanwhile, Freddy’s owners, Pam and Joe Palko, had been tirelessly searching since he went missing on February 17. They had mobilized their community, distributed flyers, posted online pleas, and even brought in professional pet trackers with search dogs and thermal drones.

As days passed and temperatures plummeted to single digits in the snow-covered region, their hope wavered—but they never gave up.

Then, just before dusk on Monday, they received the good news they had been praying for. A neighbor, retired veterinarian Dr. Carolyn Canizaro-Orlowsky, had answered the door to find Freddy standing outside. Moments later, the Palkos arrived to a joyous, tail-wagging reunion.

hiker rescues dog coal pit
Pam and Joe Palko with Freddy

“He was just a little frantic, hungry, and confused,” Canizaro-Orlowsky told ABC News. “But when they showed up, he started wiggling.”

Freddy, who lost about 10 pounds during his ordeal, is now back home, safe and recovering with his family—including his best friend, 2-year-old golden retriever Harper.

For the Palkos, who recently lost another beloved dog to cancer, Freddy’s return feels like a miracle. And for their community, his story is a powerful reminder of perseverance, kindness, and the unwavering bond between people and their pets.

“There’s a big collective sigh of relief,” said Canizaro-Orlowsky. “It’s a neat lesson not to give up.”

Watch the video below: